Our laboratory uses the mouse model to identify and characterize expression and function of genes important for normal development. Our placental project focuses on how the chorion and the allantois, two extraembryonic tissues, interact to form the labyrinth placenta. For the craniofacial projects in the laboratory we used reverse genetics, and next generation sequencing to identify genes important for craniofacial development. We identified a number of candidate genes important in vesicular transport and splicing, and are characterizing the role of these genes on morphogenesis and differentiation of the pharyngeal apparatus – the precursor of the face and neck.

