Our lab seeks to understand the cellular mechanisms that enable diverse tissues (including the skin and renal systems) to thrive under challenging conditions.

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Harnessing powerful in vivo models, our work spans multiple biological scales - linking the molecular cell biology of individual cells to the health of whole tissues and organisms. Our ultimate goal is to identify ways to improve life-long tissue health and recovery.

 

We employ an integrated, interdisciplinary approach that combines in vivo studies in Drosophila (with state-of-the-art live-imaging, genetics, molecular cell biology, single cell/spatial ‘omics), with computational approaches, human genetic epidemiology, innovative technologies and collaborative works on mammalian and human tissue biology.

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The ability to rapidly repair after injury is a key feature of many tissues, including the skin. This robust regenerative capacity is crucial since our bodies are frequently exposed to harmful and toxic insults - including from the environment (e.g. sunlight, smoking or pollution), mechanical insults (e.g. accidental injury or surgery) and from within our own bodies (e.g. inflammation or metabolism). Tissue damage normally triggers an inflammatory response, as immune cells (e.g. neutrophils) leave the circulation and migrate along complex routes to reach the affected area.

 

We primarily use Drosophila for unparalleled opportunities to probe the dynamic cell biology of whole tissues and organisms in vivo. We image these dynamic cellular processes live at the subcellular level using state-of-the-art microscopy and use advanced genetic manipulation and 'omics to dissect the underlying molecular mechanisms.

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