Understanding the temporal and spatial cellular dynamics of making a Left-Right Organizer
The Hehnly Lab investigates how cellular and intracellular mechanisms establish the Left-Right Organizer (LRO) in vertebrates, a critical structure for body axis formation. Using zebrafish as a model, the lab explores how motile and non-motile cilia within the LRO generate fluid flow or potentially sense it, impacting asymmetric organ development. Open questions include how cells differentiate to form motile versus non-motile cilia and the roles these cilia play in development.