Lab
Müller Lab
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Statement of Research Interest
How do extracellular signaling molecules pattern developing embryos and tissues? We use zebrafish as a model system and combine genetic, biophysical, and theoretical approaches to address this question. Our research focuses on three areas:
i) Biophysics of signal dispersal
Multiple signaling pathways need to be precisely coordinated in space and time to pattern the body plan. How are the appropriate distributions of signaling molecules achieved such that cells receive the right amount of signal at the right time? What factors regulate the diffusion and stability of signals?
ii) Self-organization of patterning
Systems of signals that diffuse and react with each other (reaction-diffusion systems) have been postulated to underlie complex self-organizing patterns. How might such systems function in living embryos? How do signaling systems concertedly coordinate proper patterning?
iii) Scale-invariant patterning
Individuals of the same species can vary considerably in size, but the proportions of their body plans are often constant. How is the spatial range of signaling molecules regulated during development to establish the correct tissue proportions in differently sized embryos?
i) Biophysics of signal dispersal
Multiple signaling pathways need to be precisely coordinated in space and time to pattern the body plan. How are the appropriate distributions of signaling molecules achieved such that cells receive the right amount of signal at the right time? What factors regulate the diffusion and stability of signals?
ii) Self-organization of patterning
Systems of signals that diffuse and react with each other (reaction-diffusion systems) have been postulated to underlie complex self-organizing patterns. How might such systems function in living embryos? How do signaling systems concertedly coordinate proper patterning?
iii) Scale-invariant patterning
Individuals of the same species can vary considerably in size, but the proportions of their body plans are often constant. How is the spatial range of signaling molecules regulated during development to establish the correct tissue proportions in differently sized embryos?
Lab Members