Laboratory of Lisa L. Sandell, PhD
Associate Professor - Department Oral Immunology & Infectious Diseases
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Research interests
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Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that is metabolized into the potent hormone-like molecule retinoic acid. Our studies focus on identifying how Vitamin A and retinoic acid regulate normal embryonic development and how disturbances of these molecules may contribute to congenital abnormalities. We use mice as a model system to investigate how Vitamin A metabolism and retinoic acid regulate development of craniofacial structures and salivary glands. This knowledge will help in prevention of birth defects and will contribute to bioengineering approaches for treatment of salivary gland dysfunction.