Research

 

Cell-cell fusion is fundamental to the development and physiology of multicellular organisms. Despite decades of research on cell-cell fusion events such as fertilization and myogenesis, our understanding of their molecular underpinnings remains primitive. Our laboratory is using myoblast fusion in Drosophila as a model system to elucidate general mechanisms underlying cell-cell fusion. We have taken a multifaceted approach, including genetics, cell biology, molecular biology and biochemistry, to reveal novel components of this fusion process and to understand their functions in the context of signaling networks. Our ultimate goal is to identify all the elements of the molecular circuit controlling myoblast fusion and to reconstitute this process in vitro. These studies not only address a fundamental question in muscle development and membrane biology, but also provide insights that will lead to more effective cell fusion-based therapeutic possibilities in the future.