Kristi A Wharton

Kristi A Wharton is a Professor of Biology and Professor of Medical Sciences at Brown University, affiliated with the Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry. Her research focuses on cell-cell communication via the TGF-β/BMP signaling pathways, with applications to developmental biology and diseases including ALS, cleft lip/palate, and fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP).

• Education
  • A.B. in Biology, Cornell University (1978)
  • Ph.D. in Biology, Yale University (1986)

Research Interests include dissecting molecular mechanisms of BMP signaling regulation, analyzing ligand-receptor interactions, and applying developmental biology insights to disease models. Her lab employs genetic manipulation, molecular analysis, and behavioral approaches in Drosophila and mouse models.

Recent Publications highlight her work on Drosophila as a platform for studying BMP pathway dysregulation in ALS, FOP, and craniofacial development. Articles emphasize ligand processing, receptor function, and energy homeostasis.

Scientific Awards include the American Heart Association Established Investigatorship, Manning Assistant Professorship, NIH fellowships, and the Elizabeth H. Leduc Award for teaching excellence.

Grants and Collaborations span ALS research, FOP modeling, and craniofacial development studies, with roles as PI/Co-PI on projects funded by Biogen, NIH, and disease-specific foundations. Her affiliations include visiting scientist roles at University of Basel and CNRS Montpellier.