Kelly Ten Hagen, PhD, Chief
Mission
The goal of the Developmental Glycobiology Unit is to understand the biological role of O-linked glycosylation during eukaryotic development. In particular, we are studying the gene family responsible for initiating mucin-type O-linked glycosylation of proteins. Through studies examining the effects of mutations within members of this gene family in Drosophila melanogaster, we are beginning to elucidate developmental processes that require glycosylation as well as the substrates that become glycosylated. Current research is aimed at investigating the role sugars play in protection from proteolysis, cell adhesion, and cell signaling. Ultimately, these studies will shed light on the cellular interactions that take place during development and will aid in dissecting the role O-glycans play in mammalian systems.
Personnel