Overview
We ask how the embryo works. Prior to morphogenesis the
embryo specifies each cell through transcriptional regulation
and signaling. Our research builds gene regulatory networks to
understand how that early specification works. We then ask how
this specification programs cells for their morphogenetic
movements at gastrulation, and how the cells deploy patterning
information.
Current projects examine 1) novel signal transduction
mechanisms that establish and maintain embryonic boundaries
mold the embryo at gastrulation; 2) specification of primary
mesenchyme cells in such a way that they are prepared to
execute an epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and then study
mechanistically the regulation of that transition; 3) the
specification of endoderm necessary for invagination of the
archenteron; 4) formation of the oral/aboral ectoderm and the
means by which patterning information is distributed three
dimensionally around the embryo. That information is necessary
for patterning and inducing skeletogenesis.
Other projects examine neural tube folding with the goal of
identifying genes associated with neural tube defects. Finally, a
large current effort in systems biology is being expended with
the goal of enlarging our knowledge of early networks and how
they interact.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Arthur S. Pearse Professor Emeritus of Biology
·
2023 - Present
Biology,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Professor Emeritus of Biology
·
2023 - Present
Biology,
Trinity College of Arts & Sciences
Affiliate of the Duke Regeneration Center
·
2021 - Present
Duke Regeneration Center,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Author Correction: A molecular basis for spine color morphs in the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus.
Journal Article Scientific reports · February 2025 Full text CiteSingle-Cell Transcriptomics Reveals Evolutionary Reconfiguration of Embryonic Cell Fate Specification in the Sea Urchin Heliocidaris erythrogramma.
Journal Article Genome biology and evolution · January 2025 Altered regulatory interactions during development likely underlie a large fraction of phenotypic diversity within and between species, yet identifying specific evolutionary changes remains challenging. Analysis of single-cell developmental transcriptomes ... Full text Open Access CiteAn RNA interference approach for functional studies in the sea urchin and its use in analysis of nodal signaling gradients.
Journal Article Developmental biology · December 2024 Dicer substrate interfering RNAs (DsiRNAs) destroy targeted transcripts using the RNA-Induced Silencing Complex (RISC) through a process called RNA interference (RNAi). This process is ubiquitous among eukaryotes. Here we report the utility of DsiRNA in em ... Full text CiteRecent Grants
Modulation of Cell Contact Behavior in a Re-arranging Epithelium during Gastrulation.
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health ·Collaborative Research: EDGE FGT: In vivo and in vitro Tools for the Community of Echinoderm Researchers
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Science Foundation · 2024 - 2028Embryonic Cell Recognition: Specificity Determinants
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development · 1980 - 2028View All Grants
Education, Training & Certifications
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill ·
1971
Ph.D.
University of Vermont ·
1965
M.S.
Pennsylvania State University ·
1963
B.S.