https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3901-7013
Overview
My lab is interested in understanding how tissue architecture and physiology are controlled. We study this in a variety of organ systems, including the skin the gut, and with approaches ranging from in vitro reconstitution to in vivo mouse models. Our goal is to understand the underlying cell biology controlling tissue development and function. We are particularly interested in the roles of cell-cell interactions, adhesion and the cytoskeleton in the control of stem cell fate and differentiation.
Current Appointments & Affiliations
Professor in Dermatology
·
2020 - Present
Dermatology,
Clinical Science Departments
Professor in Cell Biology
·
2020 - Present
Cell Biology,
Basic Science Departments
Member of the Duke Cancer Institute
·
2006 - Present
Duke Cancer Institute,
Institutes and Centers
Affiliate of the Duke Regeneration Center
·
2021 - Present
Duke Regeneration Center,
Basic Science Departments
Recent Publications
Desmosomes compartmentalize mRNA and translation in the skin.
Journal Article Dev Cell · May 13, 2026 Subcellular compartmentalization allows cells to spatially control molecular functions. We show that in mouse and human epidermal cells, translational machinery is enriched at the cell cortex, where a large subset of mRNAs is also localized, defining a pre ... Full text Link to item CiteCell type-specific spatiotemporal control of GFP-tagged protein degradation in mice.
Journal Article J Cell Biol · April 6, 2026 Loss-of-function studies are a central approach to understanding gene/protein function. In mice, this often relies upon heritable recombination at the DNA level. This approach is slow and nonreversible, which limits both spatial and temporal resolution of ... Full text Link to item CiteMitochondrial transfer from glia to neurons protects against peripheral neuropathy.
Journal Article Nature · February 2026 Primary sensory neurons in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) have long axons and a high demand for mitochondria, and mitochondrial dysfunction has been implicated in peripheral neuropathy after diabetes and chemotherapy1,2. However, the mechanisms by which primary ... Full text Open Access Link to item CiteRecent Grants
Roles for desmsomes in mRNA localization and translational regulation
ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases · 2024 - 2029Tau Mediates Microtubule and Mitochondrial Dynamics to Control Cellular Organization and Alveolar Epithelial Repair
ResearchCo Investigator · Awarded by National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute · 2024 - 2029Duke Training Grant in Digestive Diseases and Nutrition
Inst. Training Prgm or CMEPreceptor · Awarded by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases · 1988 - 2027View All Grants
Education
Harvard University ·
2001
Ph.D.