research overview
- The Niswander lab investigates mouse models of embryonic development to provide insights into fundamental developmental processes, major human birth defects and potential clinical therapies. Her studies have revealed the molecular mechanisms that control formation of the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as lung, limb, and neuromuscular development. Current focus is on early brain formation and birth defects that arise when normal brain formation goes awry, like failure of neural tube closure or maintenance of neural progenitor cells, resulting in spina bifida or microcephaly. We use the mouse embryo and human induced pluripotent stem cells as models of human development. Our studies encompass genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors, and live imaging to couple molecular insights to cell behaviors. Through collaborative efforts we are also exploring the genetic causes of neural tube defects in humans.
