The focus of my work is understanding the redundant and non-redundant functions of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) during embryonic development through use of mouse models. FGFs are secreted factors that are important in a number of cellular processes including cell division, survival, migration, and cell fate decisions. An area of specific interest is understanding FGF requirements in the presomitic mesoderm (PSM), the progenitor tissue of the axis. Somites are segmented from the anterior PSM and give rise to the segmented and non-segmented structures of the adult body, including the vertebrae, muscles, and the dermis of the torso. At least 7 Fgf family members are expressed in or around the PSM (Fgf3, Fgf4, Fgf5, Fgf8, Fgf15, Fgf17 and Fgf18). We have previously shown redundant and non-redundant requirements for some of these genes and are currently interested in FGF interactions with Notch signaling components important in somite segmentation. These Notch signaling components change dynamically and tightly interact with each other, prompting us to utilize multiplex fluorescent wholemount mRNA detection to examine the expression of these genes. Coupled with confocal imaging and computer modeling we are able to quantify the expression of multiple genes within a single embryonic tissue while maintaining spatial relationships.

In addition to the axis, we are also studying FGF signaling in the developing kidney, limb, and pelvic girdle through use of loss of function and gain of function mouse genetics and quantitative fluorescent mRNA analysis.