Our lab studies the earliest stages of embryogenesis to understand how single-celled eggs develop into complex multicellular embryos. We focus on the choice between soma and germline, one of the first developmental decisions faced by embryos. Our goal is to identify and characterize the molecular mechanisms that activate embryonic development, polarize embryos, and distinguish between somatic and germline cells. We use genetic, molecular and biochemical techniques and use the Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system. For more information, see papers below and the Seydoux lab website Click Here.

Publications:

Stitzel, M., Pellettieri, M. and Seydoux, G (2006) The C. elegans DYRK kinase MBK-2 marks oocyte proteins for degradation in response to meiotic maturation. Current Biology 16, 1–7.
PubMed Abstract

Hao, Y., Boyd, L., Seydoux, G. (2006). Stabilization of cell polarity by the RING protein PAR-2. Developmental Cell 10, 199–208.
PubMed Reference

Seydoux, G and Braun, R. (2006). Pathway to totipotency: lessons from germ cells. Cell 127, 891-904.
PubMed Abstract

Stitzel, M. and Seydoux, G (2007). Regulation of the oocyte-to-zygote transition. Science 316, 407-8.
PubMed Abstract