Overview of research
Islet1 is a LIM-HD transcription factor which is needed for normal embryonic development. It plays a key role in cell fate decision; however its exact role in neurosensory development remains to be determined...
We are using a transgenic mouse model to overexpress Islet1 in the mouse model. With this model we have previously seen auditory and vestibular defects. In collaboration with Professor Bernd Fritzsch from the University of Iowa, we used a lipophilic dye-tracing technique to stain individual fibres of the cochleavestibular system. We havent seen significant differences in fibre growth at postnatal stages, however at embryonic day 12.5 we observed a significant increase in fibre length and increased branching. This could indicate and rapid, premature increase in neuronal growth, but this is largely corrected for at later stages.
