EUEmory University · Biology
Deans Lab
Michael R Deans · Atlanta, Georgia
Research Focus
Dr. Michael R Deans' lab at Emory University investigates how specific proteins influence the development of hair cells in the inner ear, which are crucial for balance and motion detection. The team focuses on a protein called STK32A, studying how it helps shape the orientation of hair cell structures that detect movement. Their research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind hair cell organization and how disruptions in these processes could lead to balance disorders.
planar polarityinner ear developmenthair cellsSTK32Akinase signalingvestibular systemcellular organizationbalance disordersgene expressionmolecular genetics
Research Aims
5AIM 01Identify the cellular mechanisms that establish planar polarity in hair cells.
AIM 02Evaluate the role of STK32A in guiding stereociliary bundle orientation.
AIM 03Examine how EMX2 influences the expression of Stk32a during hair cell development.
AIM 04Investigate the significance of hair cell organization in detecting linear accelerations.
AIM 05Understand the implications of developmental disruptions on balance disorders.
Skills the Lab Values
mouse modelsmolecular genetic techniquesprotein analysisbiochemical assaysgene knockouttransgenic techniquesimmunohistochemistrymolecular biology techniquesproteomicsbioinformatics
Output against the department
Publications80bottom 23% of dept.788th of 1,033
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations3.4kbottom 26% of dept.765th of 1,033
this lab
most citedleast cited
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