Deciphering cytoskeletal organization and chromosome segregation in mammalian eggs and embryos.

We seek to uncover how the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons interact in space and time to drive accurate chromosome segregation and cellular organization. Based on our discoveries of new cellular structures that are impacted by maternal aging, we are investigating how cytoskeletal dysfunction at advanced reproductive ages predisposes eggs and embryos to detrimental chromosomal abnormalities.

We apply techniques including advanced microscopy assays and targeted protein degradation tools to interrogate cell division. We are innovating new experimental systems to study the causes of female reproductive aging and tools to spatiotemporally control protein function during oocyte meiosis and embryogenesis. Using these integrated approaches, we are addressing fundamental open questions in reproductive biology concerning cytoskeletal organization and function.