Laura Grabel

 Fisk Professor of Natural Sciences 

Ph.D. Biology, University of California San Diego

Our laboratory uses in-vitro model systems to study various aspects of mammalian development.

Migration of primitive (parietal) endoderm

This project uses F9 teratocarcinoma and embryonic stem cell embryoid bodies to identify molecular signals regulating the first migratory event in the mammalian embryo.  Recent work focuses on the non-canonical Wnt (planar cell polarity) pathway.

Making neural stem cells from embryonic stem cells

Based on their therapeutic potential, there is great interest in producing neural stem cells, as well as neurons and glia, from embryonic stem cells.  Current studies are examining how the Hedgehog pathway promotes embryonic stem cell neurogenesis.

Fate of embryonic stem cell-derived  neural stem cells transplanted to the hippocampus using a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy

(These studies are performed in collaboration with Janice Naegele and Gloster Aaron in Wesleyan's Biology Department)

We have established that prior seizure experience promotes the migration of transplanted ES-derived neural progenitors to the dentate gyrus, where they can differentiate into granule neurons.  We are currently investigating the signals that promote migration and differentiation, with a focus on SDF1 and Sonic Hedgehog.