Jeffrey Bush

Jeffrey Bush, PhD, is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Cell and Tissue Biology at the University of California San Francisco (UCSF). His research focuses on understanding the signaling mechanisms that coordinate mammalian morphogenesis, particularly in craniofacial and respiratory systems. Using mouse genetics, human ESCs/iPSCs, biophysical approaches, genomics, and live imaging, his lab investigates how cell-cell communication regulates tissue organization during development and disease. Key areas of interest include EPH/EPHRIN signaling, cell fate specification, and the molecular control of epithelial migration and tissue fusion. His work has implications for understanding congenital defects such as craniofacial malformations and birth defects.

Dr. Bush leads a pioneering lab at UCSF, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to study developmental mechanisms. Recent publications highlight collaborations in genetic mouse model analysis, exome sequencing for congenital disorders, and live imaging techniques to observe tissue fusion dynamics. His research bridges basic science and clinical applications, aiming to translate findings into strategies for preventing or treating developmental abnormalities.

Laboratory activities include the development of novel mouse reagents for studying amelogenesis, investigation of NKX2-1 signaling in tracheal separation, and exploration of EPHB receptor mutations in facial development. The lab’s work underscores the role of actomyosin contractility and cell segregation in morphogenetic processes, with implications for syndromes like craniofrontonasal syndrome.