Our lab is interested in identifying genes that contribute to congenital disease. We have a long-standing interest in Alagille syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the heart and liver. We have demonstrated that this disorder is caused by two genes in the Notch Signaling Pathway, and have continued to study the effect of these mutations, seeking to understand the clinical spectrum of defects in these disorders. Currently, we are looking to identify the genetic factors that modify the clinical variation present in this disease.
In addition to our work on Alagille syndrome, we are funded to investigate the genetic susceptibility to Biliary Atresia (BA). Various research efforts are underway, including GWAS and whole exome sequencing of individuals and trios. Using these techniques, we are exploring several genes that may contribute to the etiology of BA.