简介

Early during development, cells receive signals, instructing them to adopt certain fates. Once their fate has been decided, cells respond to additional signals functioning to maintain their differentiated state. Our laboratory is interested in how cells sustain their mature state and normal function in the context of their specialized environments. Specifically, what genes are involved in maintaining cell morphology, localization and survival? How do changes in expression or activity of these genes affect cell development and function? Danio rerio zebrafish melanophores and the surrounding skin cells offer an interesting environment to address these questions. Black melanophores, along with two additional pigment cell types, yellow xanthophores and silver iridophores, are critical for the characteristic pigmentation pattern found in zebrafish. Furthermore, melanophores express many of the same genes found in their mammalian counterpart, the melanocyte, a cell involved in hair, skin and eye color, as well as the tanning response in humans. We are interested in understanding the genes involved in maintaining the differentiated state of melanophores in the context of a developing organism. To accomplish this goal, we are examining several pigment pattern mutants to identify the characteristics of their melanophores and the mutated genes. We also use transgenic zebrafish, expressing green fluorescent protein specific to melanophores, to examine cell migration and morphology. Examining the mechanisms involved in zebrafish melanophore differentiation and function will provide insight into the normal biology of these cells and could provide clues for understanding the diseased cell (i.e. Melanoma or Vitiligo).