We are a developmental biology lab using the mouse inner ear to investigate topics of cellular morphogenesis and polarity. Our efforts are linked by an overarching goal to inderstand the establishment and maintenance of planar cell polarity (PCP) in cells, tissues and neurons. Current projects address outstanding questions in vestibular hair cell development and cochlear innervation.

Research Objectives

Research in the laboratory is focused on basic developmental mechanisms guiding cellular polarization, morphogenesis, and axon guidance within the cochlea and vestibular maculae.

We anticipate that healing the damaged ear will include a reiteration of those developmental events that first built it. Therefore, understanding those processes is an important prerequisite for the success of hearing and balance therapies.