1) Genetic and epigenetic control of regeneration

The research of this group explores the cellular, molecular and genetic mechanisms that control regeneration of tissues after injury. Fundamental questions must be answered, such as how the size of lost structures is recovered, how proliferation is controlled, and how cells retain a “memory” that allows genetic programs established during development to be maintained and re-activated during regeneration. In addition to that the understanding of the molecular details that underlie epigenetic mechanisms will be crucial for the comprehension of the maintenance of developmental decisions in regenerating tissues.

Some of these questions are addressed using genetic and cellular experimental approaches. As model system we use the regeneration ability of the Drosophila imaginal discs. We also are using DNA microarray technology and genetic designs to decipher the genetic basis of imaginal disc regeneration.



Group members: Albert Carbonell, Xavier Vilana, Adrià Punset, Cora Bergantiños, Dr. Montserrat Corominas




2) Cell signaling: gene regulatory network in the photoreceptor R7 specification

An important challenge for developmental biologists is to unravel the complex gene regulatory networks through which signaling pathways interact to promote growth and development. A simple model with which to approach the relationship between genetic interactions and cell-fate determination is the interaction between the R8 and R7 photoreceptor. This is addressed in our laboratory by identifying and characterizing negative regulators of signaling through the receptor tyrosine kinase sevenless. The development of photoreceptor cells is controlled by a variety of cell signaling mechanisms. Among them, the activation of the Sevenless receptor tyrosine kinase plays a pivotal role in the determination of the photoreceptor R7. Although that pathway is well characterized, negative regulators and their link to other pathways are not well understood. We have used a genetic screening design to search for genes that modify phenotypes caused by the overexpression of the sevenless RTK. We are currently analyzing those genes and dissecting their role in photoreceptor development.

During development high or low activity of signaling pathways may result in different cellular responses. For example, in the developing eye, high levels of Ras are required to trigger R7 fate. Using the eye imaginal disc, we are examining the transcriptomes of gain- and loss-of –function mutants of the Ras pathway to discover the genetic programs that respond to different levels of Ras pathway activity.



Group members: Isabel Almudí, Adrià Punset, Natalia Mora, Dr. Montserrat Corominas