Development, growth and aging are all directed or controlled by constant cues and signals from inside and outside the body, influenced by factors like injury, infection, stress and even what we eat.
To adjust and adapt to these cues, cells send and receive signals through biological pathways. Our research investigates the codes, signals and cell changes associated with normal development and aging, seeking to distinguish them from those cues and signals linked to disease and disability. By translating this critical, constant chatter of life, we hope to create and speak a new vocabulary for improved health.
Director’s Statement
“From fish, flies, worms and mice to human stem cells, we use model organisms to probe and unravel gene functions linked to mutations and epigenetic factors, explore the development and regenerative capacity of different organs and tissues (brain, heart, muscles, pancreas, limbs, liver) and parse the biology of aging, including how organism’s preserve healthy functioning. These insights provide the tools needed to uncover novel therapeutic targets for heart disease, neurodegeneration, muscle disorders, diabetes, cancer and other debilitating diseases.”
Pier Lorenzo Puri, MD and Alessandra Sacco, PhDProgram Directors
