Lab
Jau-Nian Chen Lab
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Statement of Research Interest
Our laboratory is investigating the development of the cardiovascular system in zebrafish. We are employing both genetic and molecular approaches to identify genes that are responsible for cell-fate determination, proliferation and differentiation of cardiovascular precursors, and the patterning of the heart and vessels.
Several unique features make zebrafish ideal for genetic and embryological studies. For instance, the transparent nature of zebrafish embryos provides easy access to observe and study organ development in live embryos. About 100 mutations affecting cardiovascular development in zebrafish have already been identified in previous genetic screens. We are currently focusing on mutations affecting the size of the heart, the patterning of cardiac chambers and vessels. We are also doing positional cloning to identify genes that areresponsible for these phenotypes.
In addition we are generating transgenic zebrafish lines in which cardiac or vascular progenitor cells are markedby the expression of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). We will use these transgenic fish to conduct genetic screens to identify new mutations affecting cardiovascular development. We will also take a molecular approach by using these transgenic lines to identify genes controlling cell-fate determination and/or differentiation through microarray technology.
Several unique features make zebrafish ideal for genetic and embryological studies. For instance, the transparent nature of zebrafish embryos provides easy access to observe and study organ development in live embryos. About 100 mutations affecting cardiovascular development in zebrafish have already been identified in previous genetic screens. We are currently focusing on mutations affecting the size of the heart, the patterning of cardiac chambers and vessels. We are also doing positional cloning to identify genes that areresponsible for these phenotypes.
In addition we are generating transgenic zebrafish lines in which cardiac or vascular progenitor cells are markedby the expression of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP). We will use these transgenic fish to conduct genetic screens to identify new mutations affecting cardiovascular development. We will also take a molecular approach by using these transgenic lines to identify genes controlling cell-fate determination and/or differentiation through microarray technology.
Lab Members
| Choi, Jayoung Graduate Student | Langenbacher, Adam Graduate Student | Nguyen, Catherine Graduate Student |
| Dong, Linda Research Staff | Huang, Jie Research Staff | Langerman, Justin Research Staff |