OUR WORK
Applied Developmental Biology
How do cells or groups of cells work together to build a functioning organ system in the developing body?
What are the general “rules” and biological “tools” that govern organ formation?
With a sufficient understanding of these rules, to what degree can we build a new organ or stimulate the regeneration of a damaged organ?
stem cell-derived skin organoid
with neurons & hair
In the Koehler Lab, we attempt to answer these questions by studying how the organs underlying our senses take shape and begin to function in early human development. The formation of sensory organs, such as the inner ear, eyes, and skin, involves complicated interactions between cell sheets, connective tissue cells, and nerve cells. To understand how these cells work together in the embryo, we instruct human stem cells to build sensory organs in a culture dish. Our ultimate goal with this work is to invent or inspire new regenerative therapies for debilitating sensory disorders.
Accelerating therapy development for rare diseases: At Boston Children’s Hospital, we have the unique opportunity to work with clinicians and clinician-scientists treating patients with rare disorders. We are focused on hearing and balance disorders, such as Usher Syndrome.
FUNDING
We are grateful to our funders for supporting our work!
