Role of cell adhesion mediated signaling in craniofacial malformations: an integrated molecular morphological study

By analysis and generation of appropriate animal models (Xenopus, zebrafish, mouse), a multidisciplinary consortium aims at obtaining a deeper insight of the role of cell-cell adhesion molecules (cadherins, protocadherins) and associated signaling pathways (catenins, Wnt signaling) in the formation of complex head structures. Over time these models will serve the genetic analysis of human craniofacial malformations.