The main focus of our lab is the study of Wnt\/Frizzled-planar cell polarity (PCP) signaling and associated regulatory and signaling specificity mechanisms. Almost all cells display a polarity and epithelial cells are polarized in two axes, apical-basolateral polarity enables tissues to perform vectorial functions, like directed secretion of specialized components, and planar polarity (PCP in the plane of an epithelium) is often associated with general tissue and organ patterning. Most cells are polarized via PCP with respect to the body axes. This is not only very evident in Drosophila but is a widespread feature of epithelia in all vertebrates including humans. For example, tissues presenting obvious PCP patterning features include skin development, inner ear sensory cells, and kidney development, or also directed movement and intercalation of mesenchymal cell populations during gastrulation and neurulation. To study the mechanisms of Wnt\/Frizzled PCP patterning we are using a combination of Drosophila in vivo studies, cell culture experiments, and biochemistry and through collaborations we confirm our results in vertebrate models like zebrafish or mouse.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”3.19.10″ color=”#00aeef” height=”18px” custom_margin=”3em|||” divider_weight=”0.5″ divider_position=”bottom” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Featured Projects” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”8em|||”]<\/p>\n
Featured Projects<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″][et_pb_image _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/merek.jpg” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Contact Us” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#ffffff”]<\/p>\n
\nMarek Mlodzik, PhD<\/strong><\/a>
marek.mlodzik@mssm.edu<\/a>
Professor & Chair | Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology
Professor | Ophthalmology
Professor | Oncological Sciences<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”0px|||” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Current Projects <\/strong><\/h3>\nThe skeletal muscle stem cell niche<\/strong><\/h5>\nSatellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n
<\/h5>\nModeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\nHoloprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”projects” module_class=”projects-section” custom_margin=”-6em|||”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_accordion admin_label=”Project Accordion” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ closed_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” border_color_all=”#00aeef”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled PCP signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/lab1.png\")
The PCP core genes are required for correct establishment of tissue polarity in all tissues analyzed (including neuronal cells). See examples of PCP defects in Drosophila wings and eyes, mammalian skin and inner ear (mouse), and vertebrate body patterning (zebrafish) in figure above.<\/strong><\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/lab2.png\")
A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric PCP protein localization (as schematized above). For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
The lab focuses in particular on the molecular understanding of the regulation of Wnt\/Fz signaling pathway(s) that are key regulators of the process and its interactions with other signaling pathways involved, for example Notch signaling in the fly eye or Fat\/Dachsous signaling in general PCP establishment.<\/p>\n
Our efforts to understand and molecularly dissect the mechanisms of PCP formation are focusing on the eye and wing in Drosophila as these tissues provide unique models to study specific aspects of PCP establishment. In the wing, PCP is reflected in the choice of the site at which an actin-based out-growth (\u201chair \u201d) initiates in each cell and the direction the hair points, with PCP controlling cytoskeletal organization. In the eye, PCP is reflected in the mirror-symmetric arrangement of individual facets or ommatidia relative to the dorso-ventral midline and associated distinct cell fate decisions and signaling, and hence PCP is controlling here a nuclear signaling pathway. Mutations in PCP genes result in the loss of wing hair orientation and ommatidial arrangements, respectively. A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric localization of the core PCP proteins themselves. For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis. The underlying signaling pathway(s) and molecular features are conserved throughout evolution and regulate related developmental aspects of coordinated cellular polarization in humans during development and disease.![](\"https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/lab3.png\")
Core PCP protein localization in Drosophila wing and eye cells. (A,B) PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized to proximal and distal cell membranes in pupal wing. Orientation of the gradient indicates the presumed Fz activity. (A) Schematic of localization of PCP proteins; hexagons represent single cells. (B) Confocal image with distal localization of Diego (green), as an example. White outlines: cells not expressing GFP-Diego. (C,D) Eye disc: core PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized. (C) Schematic of R3\/R4 cells (colors as in A; purple: colocalization of all factors). <\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled \u03b2-catenin signaling and Wnt-signaling specificity” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
A second focus of the lab is to understand how signaling specificity is achieved between the canonical Wnt\/b-catenin pathway and Wnt\/Fz-PCP signaling. The two pathways bifurcate at the level of Dishevelled (Dsh) and our efforts are currently concentrated on dissecting the pathway specific modifications of Dsh and the interaction(s) of Dsh with the Fz receptor complexes. Pathway specific Dsh membrane recruitment and Dsh phosphorylation are being studied in through functional genomics in cell culture assays, biochemical dissection, and in vivo studies. We have identified several genes that help in switching from on pathway to the other and that affect Dsh phosphorylation in distinct ways.<\/p>\n
In parallel, we have identified a novel role for IFT-A ciliary proteins in the Wnt\/b-catenin pathway acting downstream of b-catenin stabilization and upstream of transcriptional events. This IFT-A function is independent of the ciliary role of IFTs and is cytoplasmic and conserved in mammals. We have demonstrated that IFT-A and Kinesin 2 act together as a complex that binds \u03b2-catenin and microtubules and is required for nuclear translocation of b-catenin. Activation of Wnt-signaling in IFT-A or Kinesin 2 mutants fails to activate Wg\/Wnt targets, due to markedly reduced nuclear \u03b2-catenin localization, although high levels of cytoplasmic \u03b2-catenin are detected. Many questions remain however: for example (i) How is the Kinesin-2\/IFT-A complex promoting nuclear localization? Preliminary data suggest it is by movement along microtubules, but this needs to be confirmed and the associated exciting cell biology dissected; and (ii) our preliminary data further suggest that there is an antagonistic factor that competes with IFT140 binding to \u03b2-catenin to \u2018inhibit\u2019 its nuclear translocation. We are addressing these exciting questions.<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/lab4.png\")
Figure: Nuclear localization of \u03b2-catenin (red) after Wnt-induction (left panel) or in axin-\/- mutants (middle panel) is blocked in IFT140 mutants (right panel). E-cadherin is in green and DAPI in blue<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Cell motility as regulated by Wnt-Fz\/PCP, Notch, and EGFR-signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
Ommatidia are arranged with respect to the antero-posterior (A\/P) and dorso-ventral (D\/V) axes. While the A\/P arrangement is established by progression of eye development, the D\/V alignment is generated by Fz\/PCP – and N and EGFR-signaling and their effectors via ommatidial rotation (OR). Preclusters emerge with a single symmetry axis, and the combination of Wnt\/PCP-mediated cell fate induction and the subsequent OR realigns them at 90\u00b0 from their original positio. Preclusters in dorsal and ventral halves rotate in opposite directions to create a line of mirror-symmetry across the D\/V midline, the equator. Wnt\/Fz-PCP mediated R3\/R4 specification (defining ommatidial chirality) takes place just before OR initiates, determining direction of rotation. OR is a highly coordinated developmental cell motility process, entailing concerted regulation of force generation and associated cytoskeletal network. Its link to cell adhesion in particular E-cadherin complexes is essential. Based on genetic requirements and effects of core Fz-PCP factors in OR, i<\/p>\n
It is assumed that the R3\/R4 cells are critical in asymmetrically regulating force generation, thus driving OR directionality. Other factors, incl. N-signaling, the Nmo kinase, and the EGFR-Ras pathways are thought to \u201cexecute\u201d these inputs and affect cell adhesion and force generation. These observations raise three significant questions, which we study in this context:<\/p>\n
(1) What is the nature of the mechanical forces generated by the core PCP factor-effector interactions and Notch or EGFR-signaling; (2) How are these mechanically transmitted to drive a coordinated process; and (3) What are the molecular connections between the signaling pathways and junctional and cytoskeletal components during OR?<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/lab5.png\")
Figure: Developing eye discs stained for photoreceptor markers Elav (all in red), Svp (R3\/4 and R1\/6 in green) and Boss (R8). Note change in angle (rotation) of ommatdial clusters by the Svp (green) staining. Young preculsters are up and more mature ommatidia are in the lower part of picture<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#e8f8fc” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_class=”projects-section” module_id=”projects” custom_margin=”-3em|||” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”0px|||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Current Projects <\/strong><\/h3>\nThe skeletal muscle stem cell niche<\/strong><\/h5>\nSatellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n
<\/h5>\nModeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\nHoloprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#ffffff” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
\nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#ffffff” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
\nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#e8f8fc” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” custom_margin=”||-3em|” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/Team-photo-2.jpg” \/][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”3.19.10″ color=”#00aeef” height=”18px” custom_margin=”3em|||” divider_weight=”0.5″ divider_position=”bottom” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#00aeef”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/06\/Team-photo.jpg” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Marek Mlodzik” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Marek Mlodzik, PhD, Principal Investigator<\/strong><\/p>\nProfessor and Chair – Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology<\/strong>\n<\/p>\nProfessor – Ophthalmology \/ Oncological Sciences<\/strong>
merek.mlodzik@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”-5em|||”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Giovanna Collu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Giovanna Collu, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\ngiovanna.collu@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley C. Humphries” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ashley C. Humphries, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nashley.humphries@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Linh T. Vuong” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Linh T. Vuong, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nlinh.vuong1@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley Eustache” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ashley Eustache, BS<\/strong><\/p>\nResearch Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\nashley.eustache@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Yildiz Koca ” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Yildiz Koca, BS <\/strong><\/p>\nStudent<\/strong><\/p>\nyildiz.koca@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ursula Weber” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ursula Weber, A.T.A.\/MS<\/strong><\/p>\nResearch Program Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\nursula.weber@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Nabila Founounou” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Nabila Founounou, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nSenior Scientist<\/strong><\/p>\nnabila.founounou@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Claudia Molina” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Claudia Molina, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nclaudia.molinapelayo@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Jun Wu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
marek.mlodzik@mssm.edu<\/a>
Professor & Chair | Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology
Professor | Ophthalmology
Professor | Oncological Sciences<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”0px|||” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Current Projects <\/strong><\/h3>\nThe skeletal muscle stem cell niche<\/strong><\/h5>\nSatellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n
<\/h5>\nModeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\nHoloprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”projects” module_class=”projects-section” custom_margin=”-6em|||”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_accordion admin_label=”Project Accordion” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ closed_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” border_color_all=”#00aeef”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled PCP signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
The PCP core genes are required for correct establishment of tissue polarity in all tissues analyzed (including neuronal cells). See examples of PCP defects in Drosophila wings and eyes, mammalian skin and inner ear (mouse), and vertebrate body patterning (zebrafish) in figure above.<\/strong><\/p>\n
A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric PCP protein localization (as schematized above). For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
The lab focuses in particular on the molecular understanding of the regulation of Wnt\/Fz signaling pathway(s) that are key regulators of the process and its interactions with other signaling pathways involved, for example Notch signaling in the fly eye or Fat\/Dachsous signaling in general PCP establishment.<\/p>\n
Our efforts to understand and molecularly dissect the mechanisms of PCP formation are focusing on the eye and wing in Drosophila as these tissues provide unique models to study specific aspects of PCP establishment. In the wing, PCP is reflected in the choice of the site at which an actin-based out-growth (\u201chair \u201d) initiates in each cell and the direction the hair points, with PCP controlling cytoskeletal organization. In the eye, PCP is reflected in the mirror-symmetric arrangement of individual facets or ommatidia relative to the dorso-ventral midline and associated distinct cell fate decisions and signaling, and hence PCP is controlling here a nuclear signaling pathway. Mutations in PCP genes result in the loss of wing hair orientation and ommatidial arrangements, respectively. A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric localization of the core PCP proteins themselves. For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis. The underlying signaling pathway(s) and molecular features are conserved throughout evolution and regulate related developmental aspects of coordinated cellular polarization in humans during development and disease.
Core PCP protein localization in Drosophila wing and eye cells. (A,B) PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized to proximal and distal cell membranes in pupal wing. Orientation of the gradient indicates the presumed Fz activity. (A) Schematic of localization of PCP proteins; hexagons represent single cells. (B) Confocal image with distal localization of Diego (green), as an example. White outlines: cells not expressing GFP-Diego. (C,D) Eye disc: core PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized. (C) Schematic of R3\/R4 cells (colors as in A; purple: colocalization of all factors). <\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled \u03b2-catenin signaling and Wnt-signaling specificity” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
A second focus of the lab is to understand how signaling specificity is achieved between the canonical Wnt\/b-catenin pathway and Wnt\/Fz-PCP signaling. The two pathways bifurcate at the level of Dishevelled (Dsh) and our efforts are currently concentrated on dissecting the pathway specific modifications of Dsh and the interaction(s) of Dsh with the Fz receptor complexes. Pathway specific Dsh membrane recruitment and Dsh phosphorylation are being studied in through functional genomics in cell culture assays, biochemical dissection, and in vivo studies. We have identified several genes that help in switching from on pathway to the other and that affect Dsh phosphorylation in distinct ways.<\/p>\n
In parallel, we have identified a novel role for IFT-A ciliary proteins in the Wnt\/b-catenin pathway acting downstream of b-catenin stabilization and upstream of transcriptional events. This IFT-A function is independent of the ciliary role of IFTs and is cytoplasmic and conserved in mammals. We have demonstrated that IFT-A and Kinesin 2 act together as a complex that binds \u03b2-catenin and microtubules and is required for nuclear translocation of b-catenin. Activation of Wnt-signaling in IFT-A or Kinesin 2 mutants fails to activate Wg\/Wnt targets, due to markedly reduced nuclear \u03b2-catenin localization, although high levels of cytoplasmic \u03b2-catenin are detected. Many questions remain however: for example (i) How is the Kinesin-2\/IFT-A complex promoting nuclear localization? Preliminary data suggest it is by movement along microtubules, but this needs to be confirmed and the associated exciting cell biology dissected; and (ii) our preliminary data further suggest that there is an antagonistic factor that competes with IFT140 binding to \u03b2-catenin to \u2018inhibit\u2019 its nuclear translocation. We are addressing these exciting questions.<\/p>\n
Figure: Nuclear localization of \u03b2-catenin (red) after Wnt-induction (left panel) or in axin-\/- mutants (middle panel) is blocked in IFT140 mutants (right panel). E-cadherin is in green and DAPI in blue<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Cell motility as regulated by Wnt-Fz\/PCP, Notch, and EGFR-signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
Ommatidia are arranged with respect to the antero-posterior (A\/P) and dorso-ventral (D\/V) axes. While the A\/P arrangement is established by progression of eye development, the D\/V alignment is generated by Fz\/PCP – and N and EGFR-signaling and their effectors via ommatidial rotation (OR). Preclusters emerge with a single symmetry axis, and the combination of Wnt\/PCP-mediated cell fate induction and the subsequent OR realigns them at 90\u00b0 from their original positio. Preclusters in dorsal and ventral halves rotate in opposite directions to create a line of mirror-symmetry across the D\/V midline, the equator. Wnt\/Fz-PCP mediated R3\/R4 specification (defining ommatidial chirality) takes place just before OR initiates, determining direction of rotation. OR is a highly coordinated developmental cell motility process, entailing concerted regulation of force generation and associated cytoskeletal network. Its link to cell adhesion in particular E-cadherin complexes is essential. Based on genetic requirements and effects of core Fz-PCP factors in OR, i<\/p>\n
It is assumed that the R3\/R4 cells are critical in asymmetrically regulating force generation, thus driving OR directionality. Other factors, incl. N-signaling, the Nmo kinase, and the EGFR-Ras pathways are thought to \u201cexecute\u201d these inputs and affect cell adhesion and force generation. These observations raise three significant questions, which we study in this context:<\/p>\n
(1) What is the nature of the mechanical forces generated by the core PCP factor-effector interactions and Notch or EGFR-signaling; (2) How are these mechanically transmitted to drive a coordinated process; and (3) What are the molecular connections between the signaling pathways and junctional and cytoskeletal components during OR?<\/p>\n
Figure: Developing eye discs stained for photoreceptor markers Elav (all in red), Svp (R3\/4 and R1\/6 in green) and Boss (R8). Note change in angle (rotation) of ommatdial clusters by the Svp (green) staining. Young preculsters are up and more mature ommatidia are in the lower part of picture<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#e8f8fc” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_class=”projects-section” module_id=”projects” custom_margin=”-3em|||” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”0px|||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Current Projects <\/strong><\/h3>\nThe skeletal muscle stem cell niche<\/strong><\/h5>\nSatellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n
<\/h5>\nModeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\nHoloprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#ffffff” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
\nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#ffffff” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
\nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#e8f8fc” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” custom_margin=”||-3em|” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/Team-photo-2.jpg” \/][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”3.19.10″ color=”#00aeef” height=”18px” custom_margin=”3em|||” divider_weight=”0.5″ divider_position=”bottom” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#00aeef”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/06\/Team-photo.jpg” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Marek Mlodzik” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Marek Mlodzik, PhD, Principal Investigator<\/strong><\/p>\nProfessor and Chair – Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology<\/strong>\n<\/p>\nProfessor – Ophthalmology \/ Oncological Sciences<\/strong>
merek.mlodzik@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”-5em|||”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Giovanna Collu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Giovanna Collu, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\ngiovanna.collu@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley C. Humphries” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ashley C. Humphries, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nashley.humphries@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Linh T. Vuong” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Linh T. Vuong, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nlinh.vuong1@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley Eustache” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ashley Eustache, BS<\/strong><\/p>\nResearch Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\nashley.eustache@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Yildiz Koca ” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Yildiz Koca, BS <\/strong><\/p>\nStudent<\/strong><\/p>\nyildiz.koca@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ursula Weber” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ursula Weber, A.T.A.\/MS<\/strong><\/p>\nResearch Program Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\nursula.weber@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Nabila Founounou” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Nabila Founounou, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nSenior Scientist<\/strong><\/p>\nnabila.founounou@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Claudia Molina” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Claudia Molina, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nclaudia.molinapelayo@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Jun Wu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Satellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n
<\/h5>\nModeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\nHoloprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”projects” module_class=”projects-section” custom_margin=”-6em|||”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_accordion admin_label=”Project Accordion” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ closed_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” border_color_all=”#00aeef”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled PCP signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
The PCP core genes are required for correct establishment of tissue polarity in all tissues analyzed (including neuronal cells). See examples of PCP defects in Drosophila wings and eyes, mammalian skin and inner ear (mouse), and vertebrate body patterning (zebrafish) in figure above.<\/strong><\/p>\n
A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric PCP protein localization (as schematized above). For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
The lab focuses in particular on the molecular understanding of the regulation of Wnt\/Fz signaling pathway(s) that are key regulators of the process and its interactions with other signaling pathways involved, for example Notch signaling in the fly eye or Fat\/Dachsous signaling in general PCP establishment.<\/p>\n
Our efforts to understand and molecularly dissect the mechanisms of PCP formation are focusing on the eye and wing in Drosophila as these tissues provide unique models to study specific aspects of PCP establishment. In the wing, PCP is reflected in the choice of the site at which an actin-based out-growth (\u201chair \u201d) initiates in each cell and the direction the hair points, with PCP controlling cytoskeletal organization. In the eye, PCP is reflected in the mirror-symmetric arrangement of individual facets or ommatidia relative to the dorso-ventral midline and associated distinct cell fate decisions and signaling, and hence PCP is controlling here a nuclear signaling pathway. Mutations in PCP genes result in the loss of wing hair orientation and ommatidial arrangements, respectively. A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric localization of the core PCP proteins themselves. For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis. The underlying signaling pathway(s) and molecular features are conserved throughout evolution and regulate related developmental aspects of coordinated cellular polarization in humans during development and disease.
Core PCP protein localization in Drosophila wing and eye cells. (A,B) PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized to proximal and distal cell membranes in pupal wing. Orientation of the gradient indicates the presumed Fz activity. (A) Schematic of localization of PCP proteins; hexagons represent single cells. (B) Confocal image with distal localization of Diego (green), as an example. White outlines: cells not expressing GFP-Diego. (C,D) Eye disc: core PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized. (C) Schematic of R3\/R4 cells (colors as in A; purple: colocalization of all factors). <\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled \u03b2-catenin signaling and Wnt-signaling specificity” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
A second focus of the lab is to understand how signaling specificity is achieved between the canonical Wnt\/b-catenin pathway and Wnt\/Fz-PCP signaling. The two pathways bifurcate at the level of Dishevelled (Dsh) and our efforts are currently concentrated on dissecting the pathway specific modifications of Dsh and the interaction(s) of Dsh with the Fz receptor complexes. Pathway specific Dsh membrane recruitment and Dsh phosphorylation are being studied in through functional genomics in cell culture assays, biochemical dissection, and in vivo studies. We have identified several genes that help in switching from on pathway to the other and that affect Dsh phosphorylation in distinct ways.<\/p>\n
In parallel, we have identified a novel role for IFT-A ciliary proteins in the Wnt\/b-catenin pathway acting downstream of b-catenin stabilization and upstream of transcriptional events. This IFT-A function is independent of the ciliary role of IFTs and is cytoplasmic and conserved in mammals. We have demonstrated that IFT-A and Kinesin 2 act together as a complex that binds \u03b2-catenin and microtubules and is required for nuclear translocation of b-catenin. Activation of Wnt-signaling in IFT-A or Kinesin 2 mutants fails to activate Wg\/Wnt targets, due to markedly reduced nuclear \u03b2-catenin localization, although high levels of cytoplasmic \u03b2-catenin are detected. Many questions remain however: for example (i) How is the Kinesin-2\/IFT-A complex promoting nuclear localization? Preliminary data suggest it is by movement along microtubules, but this needs to be confirmed and the associated exciting cell biology dissected; and (ii) our preliminary data further suggest that there is an antagonistic factor that competes with IFT140 binding to \u03b2-catenin to \u2018inhibit\u2019 its nuclear translocation. We are addressing these exciting questions.<\/p>\n
Figure: Nuclear localization of \u03b2-catenin (red) after Wnt-induction (left panel) or in axin-\/- mutants (middle panel) is blocked in IFT140 mutants (right panel). E-cadherin is in green and DAPI in blue<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Cell motility as regulated by Wnt-Fz\/PCP, Notch, and EGFR-signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
Ommatidia are arranged with respect to the antero-posterior (A\/P) and dorso-ventral (D\/V) axes. While the A\/P arrangement is established by progression of eye development, the D\/V alignment is generated by Fz\/PCP – and N and EGFR-signaling and their effectors via ommatidial rotation (OR). Preclusters emerge with a single symmetry axis, and the combination of Wnt\/PCP-mediated cell fate induction and the subsequent OR realigns them at 90\u00b0 from their original positio. Preclusters in dorsal and ventral halves rotate in opposite directions to create a line of mirror-symmetry across the D\/V midline, the equator. Wnt\/Fz-PCP mediated R3\/R4 specification (defining ommatidial chirality) takes place just before OR initiates, determining direction of rotation. OR is a highly coordinated developmental cell motility process, entailing concerted regulation of force generation and associated cytoskeletal network. Its link to cell adhesion in particular E-cadherin complexes is essential. Based on genetic requirements and effects of core Fz-PCP factors in OR, i<\/p>\n
It is assumed that the R3\/R4 cells are critical in asymmetrically regulating force generation, thus driving OR directionality. Other factors, incl. N-signaling, the Nmo kinase, and the EGFR-Ras pathways are thought to \u201cexecute\u201d these inputs and affect cell adhesion and force generation. These observations raise three significant questions, which we study in this context:<\/p>\n
(1) What is the nature of the mechanical forces generated by the core PCP factor-effector interactions and Notch or EGFR-signaling; (2) How are these mechanically transmitted to drive a coordinated process; and (3) What are the molecular connections between the signaling pathways and junctional and cytoskeletal components during OR?<\/p>\n
Figure: Developing eye discs stained for photoreceptor markers Elav (all in red), Svp (R3\/4 and R1\/6 in green) and Boss (R8). Note change in angle (rotation) of ommatdial clusters by the Svp (green) staining. Young preculsters are up and more mature ommatidia are in the lower part of picture<\/strong><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#e8f8fc” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_class=”projects-section” module_id=”projects” custom_margin=”-3em|||” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”0px|||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Current Projects <\/strong><\/h3>\nThe skeletal muscle stem cell niche<\/strong><\/h5>\nSatellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n
<\/h5>\nModeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\nHoloprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#ffffff” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
\nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#ffffff” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
\nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#e8f8fc” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” custom_margin=”||-3em|” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/Team-photo-2.jpg” \/][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”3.19.10″ color=”#00aeef” height=”18px” custom_margin=”3em|||” divider_weight=”0.5″ divider_position=”bottom” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#00aeef”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/06\/Team-photo.jpg” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Marek Mlodzik” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Marek Mlodzik, PhD, Principal Investigator<\/strong><\/p>\nProfessor and Chair – Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology<\/strong>\n<\/p>\nProfessor – Ophthalmology \/ Oncological Sciences<\/strong>
merek.mlodzik@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”-5em|||”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Giovanna Collu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Giovanna Collu, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\ngiovanna.collu@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley C. Humphries” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ashley C. Humphries, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nashley.humphries@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Linh T. Vuong” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Linh T. Vuong, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nlinh.vuong1@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley Eustache” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ashley Eustache, BS<\/strong><\/p>\nResearch Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\nashley.eustache@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Yildiz Koca ” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Yildiz Koca, BS <\/strong><\/p>\nStudent<\/strong><\/p>\nyildiz.koca@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ursula Weber” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Ursula Weber, A.T.A.\/MS<\/strong><\/p>\nResearch Program Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\nursula.weber@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Nabila Founounou” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Nabila Founounou, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nSenior Scientist<\/strong><\/p>\nnabila.founounou@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Claudia Molina” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Claudia Molina, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\nPostdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\nclaudia.molinapelayo@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Jun Wu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”projects” module_class=”projects-section” custom_margin=”-6em|||”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_accordion admin_label=”Project Accordion” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ closed_toggle_background_color=”#ffffff” border_color_all=”#00aeef”][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled PCP signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n The lab focuses in particular on the molecular understanding of the regulation of Wnt\/Fz signaling pathway(s) that are key regulators of the process and its interactions with other signaling pathways involved, for example Notch signaling in the fly eye or Fat\/Dachsous signaling in general PCP establishment.<\/p>\n Our efforts to understand and molecularly dissect the mechanisms of PCP formation are focusing on the eye and wing in Drosophila as these tissues provide unique models to study specific aspects of PCP establishment. In the wing, PCP is reflected in the choice of the site at which an actin-based out-growth (\u201chair \u201d) initiates in each cell and the direction the hair points, with PCP controlling cytoskeletal organization. In the eye, PCP is reflected in the mirror-symmetric arrangement of individual facets or ommatidia relative to the dorso-ventral midline and associated distinct cell fate decisions and signaling, and hence PCP is controlling here a nuclear signaling pathway. Mutations in PCP genes result in the loss of wing hair orientation and ommatidial arrangements, respectively. A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric localization of the core PCP proteins themselves. For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis. The underlying signaling pathway(s) and molecular features are conserved throughout evolution and regulate related developmental aspects of coordinated cellular polarization in humans during development and disease. [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Wnt\/Frizzled \u03b2-catenin signaling and Wnt-signaling specificity” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n A second focus of the lab is to understand how signaling specificity is achieved between the canonical Wnt\/b-catenin pathway and Wnt\/Fz-PCP signaling. The two pathways bifurcate at the level of Dishevelled (Dsh) and our efforts are currently concentrated on dissecting the pathway specific modifications of Dsh and the interaction(s) of Dsh with the Fz receptor complexes. Pathway specific Dsh membrane recruitment and Dsh phosphorylation are being studied in through functional genomics in cell culture assays, biochemical dissection, and in vivo studies. We have identified several genes that help in switching from on pathway to the other and that affect Dsh phosphorylation in distinct ways.<\/p>\n In parallel, we have identified a novel role for IFT-A ciliary proteins in the Wnt\/b-catenin pathway acting downstream of b-catenin stabilization and upstream of transcriptional events. This IFT-A function is independent of the ciliary role of IFTs and is cytoplasmic and conserved in mammals. We have demonstrated that IFT-A and Kinesin 2 act together as a complex that binds \u03b2-catenin and microtubules and is required for nuclear translocation of b-catenin. Activation of Wnt-signaling in IFT-A or Kinesin 2 mutants fails to activate Wg\/Wnt targets, due to markedly reduced nuclear \u03b2-catenin localization, although high levels of cytoplasmic \u03b2-catenin are detected. Many questions remain however: for example (i) How is the Kinesin-2\/IFT-A complex promoting nuclear localization? Preliminary data suggest it is by movement along microtubules, but this needs to be confirmed and the associated exciting cell biology dissected; and (ii) our preliminary data further suggest that there is an antagonistic factor that competes with IFT140 binding to \u03b2-catenin to \u2018inhibit\u2019 its nuclear translocation. We are addressing these exciting questions.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item _builder_version=”3.19.10″ title=”Cell motility as regulated by Wnt-Fz\/PCP, Notch, and EGFR-signaling” link_option_url_new_window=”off” use_background_color_gradient=”off” background_color_gradient_start=”#2b87da” background_color_gradient_end=”#29c4a9″ background_color_gradient_type=”linear” background_color_gradient_direction=”180deg” background_color_gradient_direction_radial=”center” background_color_gradient_start_position=”0%” background_color_gradient_end_position=”100%” background_color_gradient_overlays_image=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” background_size=”cover” background_position=”center” background_repeat=”no-repeat” background_blend=”normal” allow_player_pause=”off” background_video_pause_outside_viewport=”on” text_shadow_style=”none” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ hover_transition_duration=”300ms” hover_transition_delay=”0ms” hover_transition_speed_curve=”ease” text_shadow_horizontal_length=”0em” text_shadow_vertical_length=”0em” text_shadow_blur_strength=”0em” border_radii=”on|2px|2px|2px|2px” icon_color=”#00aeef” box_shadow_horizontal=”0px” box_shadow_vertical=”12px” box_shadow_blur=”18px” box_shadow_spread=”-6px”]<\/p>\n Ommatidia are arranged with respect to the antero-posterior (A\/P) and dorso-ventral (D\/V) axes. While the A\/P arrangement is established by progression of eye development, the D\/V alignment is generated by Fz\/PCP – and N and EGFR-signaling and their effectors via ommatidial rotation (OR). Preclusters emerge with a single symmetry axis, and the combination of Wnt\/PCP-mediated cell fate induction and the subsequent OR realigns them at 90\u00b0 from their original positio. Preclusters in dorsal and ventral halves rotate in opposite directions to create a line of mirror-symmetry across the D\/V midline, the equator. Wnt\/Fz-PCP mediated R3\/R4 specification (defining ommatidial chirality) takes place just before OR initiates, determining direction of rotation. OR is a highly coordinated developmental cell motility process, entailing concerted regulation of force generation and associated cytoskeletal network. Its link to cell adhesion in particular E-cadherin complexes is essential. Based on genetic requirements and effects of core Fz-PCP factors in OR, i<\/p>\n It is assumed that the R3\/R4 cells are critical in asymmetrically regulating force generation, thus driving OR directionality. Other factors, incl. N-signaling, the Nmo kinase, and the EGFR-Ras pathways are thought to \u201cexecute\u201d these inputs and affect cell adhesion and force generation. These observations raise three significant questions, which we study in this context:<\/p>\n (1) What is the nature of the mechanical forces generated by the core PCP factor-effector interactions and Notch or EGFR-signaling; (2) How are these mechanically transmitted to drive a coordinated process; and (3) What are the molecular connections between the signaling pathways and junctional and cytoskeletal components during OR?<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#e8f8fc” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_class=”projects-section” module_id=”projects” custom_margin=”-3em|||” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”0px|||”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Satellite cells (SCs) are adult skeletal muscle stem cells located between the myofiber and its surrounding basal lamina, and they are the source of skeletal muscle\u2019s remarkable regenerative properties. SCs exist in a largely quiescent state in adult mice. However, upon muscle injury they are activated to proliferate and produce the myoblasts that will ultimately differentiate to form new myofibers; they also self-renew to replenish the muscle stem cell compartment. Quiescence is promoted by the SC niche, including the myofiber itself. Using a combination of conditional mouse mutants and cell biological analyses, we have shown that classical cadherins are components of the niche, required cell-autonomously by both the fiber and SC. We are continuing these studies with additional components of cadherin-based cell-cell junctions. We are also interested in the fundamental question of how the myofiber constructs and maintains a niche for SCs, as SCs are small, polarized, and mononuclear cells, whereas myofibers are large, non-polarized, and multinucleated cells. SCs and myofibers are in direct cell-cell contact (with cadherins present precisely where the two cells touch) but this junction represents a very small amount of the total myofiber cell surface. We are studying this question with a combination of in vivo and ex vivo approaches.<\/p>\n Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is a common developmental defect caused by failure to define the midline of the forebrain and\/or midface. HPE is associated with heterozygous mutations in Nodal and Hedgehog (Hh) pathway components, but clinical presentation is highly variable, and many mutation carriers are unaffected. It is therefore thought that such mutations interact with more common modifiers, genetic and\/or environmental, to produce severe patterning defects. Modifiers are difficult to identify, as their effects are context-dependent and occur within the complex genetic and environmental landscapes that characterize human populations. This has made a full understanding of HPE etiology challenging. We have developed mouse models for HPE that shed light on its complex etiology. Our studies with mouse lines carrying Hh pathway mutations on appropriate genetic backgrounds have led to identification of both genetic and environmental modifiers that synergize with the mutations to produce a spectrum of HPE phenotypes. These models favor a scenario in which multiple modifying influences\u2014both genetic and environmental, sensitizing and protective\u2014interact with bona fide HPE mutations to grade phenotypic outcomes. Despite the complex interplay of HPE risk factors, our findings have helped establish some clear concepts in HPE etiology.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#ffffff” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n \nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#ffffff” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ background_color=”#e8f8fc” parallax=”on” module_id=”publications” module_class=”publications-section” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”||0px|”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”publications” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n \nRecent Key Publications<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Vuong, L., Iomini, C., Balmer, S., Esposito, D., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2018). The Kinesin -2\/IFT-A complex promotes nuclear localization of b-Catenin during Wnt signaling. Nature Communications<\/strong>, 9<\/em>, 5304. doi: 10.1038\/s41467-018-07605-z. PMCID: PMC6294004<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Bigenzahn, J.W, Collu, G.M., Vladimer, G.I., Heinz, L.X., Pieraks, M., Schischlik, F., Fauster, A., Rebsamen, M., Blomen, V.A., Winter, G.E. Kralovics, R., Brummelkamp, T.R., Mlodzik, M., and Superti-Furga, G. (2018). LZTR1 is a regulator of RAS ubiquitination and signaling. Science<\/strong>, 362<\/em>, 1171-1177. PMCID in progress<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Wu, J., and Mlodzik M. (2017) Wnt\/PCP Instructions for Cilia in Left-Right Asymmetry.<\/a> Dev Cell,<\/strong> 40<\/em>, 423-424. PMCID: PMC5490791<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Weber, U, and Mlodzik M. (2017). APC\/CFzr\/Cdh1<\/sup>\u2013dependent Regulation of Planar Cell Polarity Establishment via Nek2 Kinase Acting on Dishevelled. Dev Cell<\/strong>, 40<\/em>, 53-66. PMCID: PMC5225046<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., Balmer, S., Mendoza, M., Dussert, A., Collu, G., Weber, U., Ciruna, B. and Mlodzik, M. (2015). The Clathrin Adapter AP-1 complex and Arf1 regulate Planar Cell Polarity in vivo. <\/em>Nature Communications<\/strong> 6<\/em>, 6751.doi: 10.1038\/ncomms7751. PMCID: PMC4515971<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Chin, M.L. and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Drosophila<\/em> Furrowed\/Selectin is a homophilic cell adhesion molecule stabilizing Frizzled and mediating its intercellular interactions during PCP establishment. Dev Cell,<\/strong> 26<\/em>, 455-468. <\/em>PMCID: PMC4084690.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Wu, J., Roman, A., Carvajal-Gonzalez, J.M., and Mlodzik, M. (2013). Wg and Wnt4 provide long-range directional input to planar cell polarity orientation in Drosophila<\/em>. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 15<\/em>, 1045-1055. PMCID: PMC3762953<\/a><\/strong>. [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Singh, J., Grumolato, L., Yanfeng, W.A., Aaronson, S.A., and Mlodzik, M. (2010). Abelson family kinases regulate Frizzled planar cell polarity signaling via Dsh phosphorylation. Genes & Development <\/strong>24, <\/em>2157-2168.<\/em> PMCID: PMC2947768 [with Cover]<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Simons, M., Gault, W.J., Gotthardt, D., Rohatgi, R, Klein, T.J., \u00ad<\/sup>Shao, Y., Lee, H.-J., Wu, A.-L., Fang, Y., Satlin, L.M., Dow, J.T., Chen, J., Zheng, J., Boutros, M., and Mlodzik, M. (2009). Electrochemical cues regulate the assembly of the Frizzled\/Dishevelled complex at the plasma membrane during planar epithelial polarization. Nature Cell Biology<\/strong>, 11, <\/em>286-294. PMCID: PMC2803043<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button _builder_version=”3.19.10″ button_text=”PubMed” button_url=”https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/” background_layout=”dark” custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”16″ button_bg_color=”#00aeef” button_border_width=”0″ button_border_radius=”2″ button_letter_spacing=”0.5″ button_font=”Open Sans|700|||||||” button_icon=”%%20%%” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#e8f8fc” next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” custom_margin=”||-3em|” disabled=”on” disabled_on=”on|on|on”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team-heading” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/05\/Team-photo-2.jpg” \/][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”3.19.10″ color=”#00aeef” height=”18px” custom_margin=”3em|||” divider_weight=”0.5″ divider_position=”bottom” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ specialty=”off” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#000000″ _builder_version=”3.19.10″ disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” module_id=”team” module_class=”team-section” border_width_bottom=”1px” border_color_bottom=”#00aeef”][et_pb_row][et_pb_column type=”4_4″][et_pb_text admin_label=”team” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image admin_label=”Team Image” _builder_version=”3.19.10″ src=”https:\/\/labs.icahn.mssm.edu\/mlodziklab\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/255\/2019\/06\/Team-photo.jpg” disabled=”off” disabled_on=”off|off|off” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Marek Mlodzik” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Marek Mlodzik, PhD, Principal Investigator<\/strong><\/p>\n Professor and Chair – Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology<\/strong>\n<\/p>\n Professor – Ophthalmology \/ Oncological Sciences<\/strong> [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.19.10″ custom_margin=”-5em|||”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Giovanna Collu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Giovanna Collu, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\n Postdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\n giovanna.collu@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley C. Humphries” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Ashley C. Humphries, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\n Postdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\n ashley.humphries@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Linh T. Vuong” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Linh T. Vuong, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\n Postdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\n linh.vuong1@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ashley Eustache” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Ashley Eustache, BS<\/strong><\/p>\n Research Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\n ashley.eustache@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Yildiz Koca ” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Yildiz Koca, BS <\/strong><\/p>\n Student<\/strong><\/p>\n yildiz.koca@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Ursula Weber” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Ursula Weber, A.T.A.\/MS<\/strong><\/p>\n Research Program Coordinator<\/strong><\/p>\n ursula.weber@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Nabila Founounou” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Nabila Founounou, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\n Senior Scientist<\/strong><\/p>\n nabila.founounou@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Claudia Molina” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n Claudia Molina, PhD<\/strong><\/p>\n Postdoctoral Fellow<\/strong><\/p>\n claudia.molinapelayo@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Jun Wu” _builder_version=”3.19.10″]<\/p>\n
The PCP core genes are required for correct establishment of tissue polarity in all tissues analyzed (including neuronal cells). See examples of PCP defects in Drosophila wings and eyes, mammalian skin and inner ear (mouse), and vertebrate body patterning (zebrafish) in figure above.<\/strong><\/p>\n
A key feature of PCP signaling is the resulting asymmetric PCP protein localization (as schematized above). For example in the wing in the proximo-distal axis and in the eye in the dorso-ventral axis.<\/strong><\/p>\n
Core PCP protein localization in Drosophila wing and eye cells. (A,B) PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized to proximal and distal cell membranes in pupal wing. Orientation of the gradient indicates the presumed Fz activity. (A) Schematic of localization of PCP proteins; hexagons represent single cells. (B) Confocal image with distal localization of Diego (green), as an example. White outlines: cells not expressing GFP-Diego. (C,D) Eye disc: core PCP proteins are asymmetrically localized. (C) Schematic of R3\/R4 cells (colors as in A; purple: colocalization of all factors). <\/strong><\/p>\n
Figure: Nuclear localization of \u03b2-catenin (red) after Wnt-induction (left panel) or in axin-\/- mutants (middle panel) is blocked in IFT140 mutants (right panel). E-cadherin is in green and DAPI in blue<\/p>\n
Figure: Developing eye discs stained for photoreceptor markers Elav (all in red), Svp (R3\/4 and R1\/6 in green) and Boss (R8). Note change in angle (rotation) of ommatdial clusters by the Svp (green) staining. Young preculsters are up and more mature ommatidia are in the lower part of picture<\/strong><\/p>\nCurrent Projects <\/strong><\/h3>\n
The skeletal muscle stem cell niche<\/strong><\/h5>\n
<\/h5>\n
Modeling holoprosencephaly in the mouse<\/strong><\/h5>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Featured Recent Publications<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Meet the Team<\/strong><\/h3>\n
merek.mlodzik@mssm.edu<\/a><\/p>\n