Areas of Interest
Our lab studies how stem cells in the skin and hair follicle coordinate their behaviors to maintain barrier function, regenerate hair, and heal wounds. These studies have important implications for patients who suffer from alopecia, acne, seborrheic dermatitis and ichthyosis. In addition, our group has a long-standing interest in understanding the genetic factors that drive the formation of basal cell carcinoma (BCC), the most common cancer in North America. We are particularly curious about the interplay between Hedgehog and Notch signaling, and how these two pathways work together to modulate tumorigenesis and drug response. As members of both the Departments of Dermatology and CDB at Michigan, we combine basic science and translational in vivo approaches to uncover novel insights into multiple aspects of cutaneous biology.