Eberhart Lab

University of Texas at Austin

Eberhart Lab

University of Texas at Austin

We study how genetics and the environment influence the cellular mechanisms underlying craniofacial development. Craniofacial morphogenesis requires the precise control of multiple cellular processes, including cell movement, signaling, and differentiation. Disruption of any one of the processes can result in craniofacial disease, which is prevalent in humans. Our goal is to determine how these varied cellular processes integrate during craniofacial morphogenesis using the zebrafish as a model organism. Studies in the lab utilize a variety of techniques including genetics, molecular biology, and live imaging of embryos to finely dissect normal craniofacial morphogenesis and help determine the causes of craniofacial disease.