Yu Lan, Ph.D.

See information for Patients. Viewing information for Researchers.

Cleft palate is a common birth defect in humans. To understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cleft palate pathogenesis, we have been investigating the molecular pathways governing normal palate development in the laboratory mice. Through gene expression screens, we have identified several genes encoding putative transcription factors that exhibit distinct and dynamic expression patterns during the palate development. Using the gene targeting technology, we have generated mice carrying null or conditional null mutations in some of these transcription factor genes. Analyses of the mutant mice revealed that several newly identified transcription factors, such as Osr1 and Osr2, play essential roles in palate development. Ongoing investigations focus on delineating the molecular pathways involving these factors in palate development using a combination of genetic, embryological, and biochemical approaches.

Current Appointments

• Research Assistant Professor - Department of Biomedical Genetics, Center for Oral Biology (SMD)

Lab Description

Molecular Mechanisms of Mammalian Palate Development.

Lab Website

http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/biomedical-genetics/faculty/lan-lab.cfm