Our laboratory is defining molecular mechanisms that underly the development of an egg cells, or oocytes, in the ovary. We are also asking how fluctuations within the environment impact animal reproduction through cell biological approaches and evolutionary comparisons between different marine invertebrate species. Oogenesis coincides with important developmental decisions: in a broad array of animals, the primary body axis (e.g. anterior vs. posterior), is programmed directly into the egg. What molecular cues define this axis and how do they transmit that information into the developing embryo?

To address these questions, we are working at the interface between cell biology and development, with the sea star Patiria miniata and its relatives. Sea stars produce millions of oocytes throughout their lifespans, and are amenable to many experimental tools. As relatives to the animal group that includes vertebrates like ourselves, the sea star can teach us important lessons relevant for human reproductive health, disease, and aging.