Research Interests:  Vertebrate development is a complex process involving numerous, tightly regulated signaling pathways. Growth factors and their receptors are some of the most influential genes and proteins regulating the various stages of development. Key to understanding the growth and development of the human body, is the use of other vertebrates to dissect the regulatory networks and then applying this information to human development. Common models for vertebrate development include mouse, chick and zebrafish. We use the zebrafish as a model for vertebrate development, and specifically to study Neural Crest Cell (NCC) development and specification as it relates to craniofacial development. We are also interested in the role of various growth factors during tooth development, specifically mineralization and how that process is disprupted by fluoride.