DOC Developmental Biology & Congenital Anomalies Program
Overview
The Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial (DOC) Developmental Biology & Congenital Anomalies Program supports basic and pre-translational research on processes that underpin the development of craniofacial (CF) structures. Projects falling within the purview of this program may range from neural crest specification early in embryogenesis to patterning, differentiation, and morphogenesis of the craniofacial complex and subsequent development of teeth and craniofacial sutures. The program aims to advance fundamental knowledge and understanding of the etiologies of congenital craniofacial anomalies, with the goal of improving prevention and treatment. The program encourages fundamental research in the following areas:
- Molecular signatures distinguishing changes in cell fate and behavior such as cell migration, cell polarity, cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions during development and maldevelopment
- Spatiotemporal insights at cellular and tissue levels using new and emerging functional-omics technologies (genomics, epigenomics, proteomics, metabolomics)
- Growth factor and metabolite signaling pathways, particularly in the context of gene-by-environment (GxE) studies, such as the impact of prenatal nutrition and environmental exposures on craniofacial development
- Gene regulatory networks in CF development
- Genotype-phenotype studies of human genetic variants associated with structural congenital anomalies at molecular and cellular levels, using cutting-edge imaging, -omics, etc. technologies in model systems
- Evo-devo studies that illuminate the regulation of craniofacial development and identify new genes involved in this process
Related Resources
Staff Contact
Program Officer
Developmental Biology & Genetics Program