Investigating the Developmental Biology and Epigenetics of Muscular Dystrophy
The Maves Lab is taking advantage of a zebrafish model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (the dmd mutant strain) to investigate the developmental biology and epigenetics of DMD as well as to identify new drug therapies for DMD. We also work closely with Dr. David Mack’s lab (https://iscrm.uw.edu/faculty/david-l-mack/) to take advantage of human iPSC and rat models of DMD
Pinpointing How Genes Influence Muscle Cell Differentiation
The Maves Lab is making key discoveries about how muscle cell differentiation is controlled. We are interested in understanding the transcriptional regulation of skeletal muscle fiber type differentiation (fast-twitch vs slow-twitch fibers).
CRISPR Editing and Screening for Novel Genes that Cause Heart Defects
The lab is using CRISPR genome editing to engineer mutations in zebrafish in genes that are associated with congenital heart defects in humans. The goal is to understand how mutations in these genes lead to heart developmental malformations. In particular, we are studying the roles of Pbx and Meis transcription factors in heart development. We are also using CRISPR genome screening in zebrafish to test the functions of new genes that have been implicated in human congenital heart defects. Recently our screening has identified several new genes required for heart development. Our goal is to gain insight into the complex genetics of congenital heart defects.