Our laboratory focuses on environmental signals and sensors. Our goal is to use systems biology to develop a detailed understanding of the actions of chemicals in the environment that disrupt cellular signal and information systems, and the impact on human health. We study receptor-mediated toxicity, with particular interest in the mechanism of dioxin action and environmental hormones. Recent work has focused on interactions of the dioxin receptor and intracellular receptors that modulate growth, differentiation, and development. We have recently initiated studies on transgenic in situ sensors of dioxins in the environment. Another new research theme is the study Ah receptor action on zebrafish development and how this relates to human developmental deficits caused by in utero exposure to dioxin.
