The goal of this project is to identify novel epigenetic mechanisms that influence neural crest development with the ultimate goal of preventing congenital heart disease. Epigenetic factors include nutrition, toxins and drugs that alter the output of genes in a heritable fashion not dependent upon the DNA sequence. To investigate this problem the investigators use small molecule screening in zebrafish, test selected medications in murine model systems and analyze human epidemiologic data to identify epigenetic risk factors

The investigators are currently in the midst of screening a library of medications in zebrafish for effects on neural crest development and expect to have the first results within the next few months. They are already pursuing studies in mice about the effect of specific medications and nutritional factors on neural crest development. Additionally, they are gathering global epidemiologic data about disorders of neural crest development to gain new insight into the link between nutrition and birth defects. These exciting studies are providing novel insight into disease pathogenesis that they will continue to vigorously pursue.