Research Interests

Wnt signalling in Xenopus Develooment

Research Area

The tissues and organs of developing embryos are organised by cell-to-cell signalling. These interactions are mediated by a relatively small number of signalling molecules. These signals are repeatedly used at different stages of development and in different tissues of the embryo. Wnts are one important class of such signalling molecules. They are secreted glycoproteins which function as cell-to-cell signals in develomental processes in all multicellular animals examined. Abnormally activated Wnt signalling is also involved in certain types of tumours such as breast and colon cancer.

Current Members

Hoppler, Stefan P. (Principal Investigator/Director)

Additional Information

We want to understand the normal role of Wnt signalling in patterning the developing vertebrate embryo. Where and when are Wnts used during embryogenesis and what is their function in different organs and at different stages? We have recently analysed the molecular mechanisms of tissue-specific Wnt signalling and are currently studying Wnt function in heart and brain development. We use Xenopus as our model system and apply modern techniques, such as transgenesis and antisense oligos.

Contact

Institution: University of Aberdeen

Address:
Institute of Medical Sciences
University of Aberdeen
Cell and Developmental Biology Program
Aberdeen, Scotland
AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom

Web Page: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/ims/profiles/s.p.hoppler

Personal Phone: +44 (0)1224 437383

Personal Fax: +44 (0)1224 437384

General/Lab Phone: +44 (0)1224 437519