This research unit is interested in understanding the molecular signals that are involved in the embryonic development of individual organs. Research in the lab uses the amphibian, Xenopus laevis, to identify those factors that play a role in the initial events of endodermal organogenesis. Research in the lab is currently focusing on understanding the transdifferentiation of pancreas, liver and other endodermal organs in more detail through the use of transgenesis in Xenopus. We are also interested in identifying the molecular factors that play an important role in the specification of the various endodermal organs, with a particular emphasis on the pancreas. Understanding and identifying the master regulatory genes involved in organ development is important as they may be used to reprogram either stem cells or differentiated cells for therapeutic purposes, such as producing beta cells for diabetes.