Research

Our Research

The general research focus of our lab is studying the cellular and molecular basis of the mechanisms by which animal cells are organized into precisely ordered multicellular structures, such as tissues and neural networks. We are particularly interested in the roles of cell-cell adhesion and recognition molecules in these processes. The cadherin family of adhesion molecules and associated signaling systems are essential for the construction of tissues; this adhesion machinery is the main subject of our research. We expect that our studies will contribute to the understanding of not only basic mechanisms of animal morphogenesis but also of pathological cell behavior, such as cancer invasion and metastasis.

Cell-cell adhesion and its remodeling

Cell-cell adhesion is remodeled during morphogenesis or cancer metastasis, and this remodeling is important for regulating many types of cell behavior. Cadherin activity is modulated by its interactions with actin filaments or microtubules, which are mediated by catenins, a group of cadherin-associated proteins. We are studying the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between cadherins and such cytoskeletal systems with the goal of gaining novel insights into the mechanisms of cell-cell adhesion remodeling. Our recent studies also include investigating the role of non-centrosomal microtubules in cell adhesion and other cellular functions.

Tissue morphogenesis and neural network formation

A second area of interest is examining the mechanisms by which animal tissues are organized through the processes of dynamic cell rearrangement, such as cell migration and relocation. At the cellular level, we are exploring the roles of cadherin molecules in the contact-dependent regulation of cell migration. For investigations at the tissue level, we are using embryonic brains of the mouse as a model system to determine how cadherin and associated molecules control the morphogenesis of neuroepithelial layers, as well as the migration of neural progenitor cells. We are also interested in the mechanisms underlying the formation of neural networks. Cadherin-catenin complexes are localized in synaptic contacts, and we are attempting to determine how the development of neural networks is regulated by this adhesion system, as well as by other molecules. These studies also include uncovering the roles of protocadherins, which are members of the cadherin superfamily, in the regulation of neuronal cell-cell interactions.