Research

Our research focuses on the genetic control mechanisms governing vertebrate development using the mouse as a model organism. More specifically, we are interested in gaining a better understanding of the cellular and molecular processes crucial in the development of mesodermally derived organs including the heart, kidney and ureter, and the inner ear. This work also aims to better understand congenital human diseases including valvular-septal defects of the heart, anomalies of the urinary tract and hearing loss by establishing mouse models for these disorders and deciphering the molecular changes associated with them. In the long run, this may provide means to reinitiate developmental programs for regenerative approaches in human diseases.

We are using all techniques of modern cell and molecular biology in addition to embryological manipulations in the mouse as well as transgenics and targeted gene disruption to gain information on the mode of action of genes in vivo and in vitro.

A major focus of our molecular work lies in the analysis of the role of transcription factors of the T-box (Tbx) gene family in organogenesis.