NICHD DIR: NICHD Intramural Research

Program in Genomics of Differentiation

Head: Igor B. Dawid

The Program in Genomics of Development (PGD) uses the tools of molecular genetics to study questions of the molecular regulation of development at the genomic, cellular and organismal level. Multiple model systems are employed, including viruses, bacteria, yeast, Drosophila melanogaster, cultured mammalian cells, and embryos from Xenopus, zebrafish and the mouse. Subjects of interest include chromatin dynamics, regulation of the immune system, the retroviral life cycle, bacterial physiology, control of replication and RNA metabolism. Two subjects are emphasized most strongly. The zebrafish is being explored as a premier model system for vertebrate embryo development and organogenesis, as well as for modeling certain human conditions. Using genetics, genomics, and especially imaging techniques, PGD investigators study cell-cell signaling and cellular behavior in early embryogenesis, formation and morphogenesis of the vascular system, and cellular specification in the developing nervous system in the zebrafish. Molecular genetics of the mouse represents the other focal point. PGD investigators employ advanced gene targeting and transgenic technologies to study genes that control mouse development, including transcriptional control in the early embryo, the role of Lim-homeobox genes and chromatin-binding proteins, mechanisms of genomic imprinting, regulation of immune cells, the development of the central and peripheral nervous systems, and the behavior of neural stem cells in the adult organism. In addition, the Program generates mouse models of a diverse array of human genetic disorders.