The overall goal of my research program is to uncover how quality control is achieved during meiosis. Meiosis is a dynamic cell cycle process that transmits genetic information from one generation to the next, generating gametes (sperm and eggs) that have exactly half the genome content. Errors in meiosis can have severe consequences, including incorrect chromosome numbers in egg cells, a leading cause of infertility, pregnancy loss, and congenital conditions like Down syndrome. Thus, defective meiotic cells must be eliminated as part of a quality control program. Recent breakthroughs suggest that the nuclear envelope of meiotic cells plays a key role in this program. Focusing on developing oocytes –precursors of eggs, we aim to elucidate how the dynamic nuclear envelope detects and responds to chromosomal errors to promote quality control during meiosis. We will use a wide variety of experimental strategies, including high resolution live cell imaging, genetics, synthetic biology, and engineering approaches to fill this fundamental knowledge gap. Our primary experimental organism is the tiny but mighty nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Thanks to its genetic tractability, conserved genes and pathways, and suitability for in vivo light microscopy and genome editing, C. elegans provides a unique “pioneer model” for this new frontier.
Our recent work discovered that the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo localizes at the nuclear envelope and is required for meiotic quality control. This suggests a new surveillance mechanism involving mechanical force and sets up the stage for exploring how the dynamic nuclear envelope promotes meiotic quality control. Questions we seek to address include (1) How do Piezo channels promote meiotic quality control? (2) How do mechanotransduction pathways at the nuclear envelope coordinate both quality and quantity during oocyte development? and (3) How does nuclear envelope-based meiotic quality control evolve across diverse species? We are building a vibrant research group where science is rigorous, meaningful, and fun. We are committed to creating a supportive environment where every lab member can thrive and grow into the scientist they aspire to be. If you are interested in meiosis, cell biology, mechanotransduction, or physiology, let's chat! More about our work and ways to join can be found here.