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From Stem Cells to Organs via BMP signals and GATA Transcription Factors
Animal development is controlled by a surprisingly limited number of highly complex signaling pathways that direct with temporal and spatial precision the differentiation of a large number of specific cell lineages and the formation of unique and complex organs. This concept is exemplified by the BMP signaling pathway and a small family of GATA transcription factors that together control stem and progenitor cell fate, lineage differentiation choices, and morphogenetic programs critical for cardiovascular, hematopoietic, and gut organ development. These pathways continue to be used throughout life and defects in the various components cause specific human diseases. Fortunately, the pathways are highly conserved throughout evolution, justifying the use of animal models to further understand specificity of gene function. We are developing novel embryonic and stem cell models that allow us to manipulate components of the BMP-GATA pathway, and to define specificity for component functions. A major goal of this work is to define potential targets for treating debilitating human diseases including heart disease and leukemia.
