معرفی
Marek Mlodzik is a Professor & Chair of Cell, Developmental & Regenerative Biology, as well as a Professor of Ophthalmology and Oncological Sciences at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of planar cell polarity (PCP) and Wnt signaling pathways, with particular emphasis on their roles in development and disease.
Education:
- Diploma, University of Basel
- PhD, Biocenter, University of Basel
Dr. Mlodzik's research primarily investigates the establishment of epithelial planar cell polarity (PCP) regulated by Wnt/Frizzled-PCP signaling and the mechanisms of Wnt-signaling specificity regulation between the PCP and canonical beta-catenin pathways. His laboratory studies cross-talk between Wnt/Frizzled pathways and Notch and Egf-receptor signaling. Using Drosophila as a model system, his work has revealed fundamental insights into how epithelial cells develop polarity with respect to body axes, a feature conserved throughout evolution that regulates coordinated cellular polarization in mammals and is linked to several human diseases ranging from gastrulation defects to cancer, and from ciliopathies to deafness and sterility. His research spans cell biology, developmental neurobiology, genetics, genomics, and signal transduction, with significant implications for understanding cancer biology and developmental disorders.
Analysis of Dr. Mlodzik's recent publications reveals a consistent focus on Wnt signaling pathways, planar cell polarity mechanisms, and their connections to developmental processes. His work increasingly explores the intersection of these pathways with other signaling systems like Notch, and investigates the molecular mechanisms that determine signaling specificity. Recent research has delved deeper into the nuclear translocation of β-catenin, the role of intraflagellar transport complexes, and the regulation of protein phosphorylation in cell polarity establishment.
Scientific Awards and Recognitions:
- 2018 EMBO USA Fellows Conference Host
- 2018 Member, NIH Scientific Review Group DEV-1
- 2004 Member, NIH Scientific Review Group DEV-2
- 2001 Harvey Society Member
- 2001 Member, NIH Scientific Review Group CDF-5
- 1997 EMBO Elected Member
- 1990 American Cancer Society Senior Fellow
- 1990 Swiss National Science Foundation Senior Fellow
- 1988 EMBO Postdoctoral fellowship
Dr. Mlodzik leads the Mlodzik Laboratory, which maintains an active research program investigating the molecular basis of planar cell polarity. His lab has received continuous funding from NIH and other prestigious organizations, supporting a team of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and research technicians. While specific grant details aren't provided in the text, his long-standing membership in NIH review panels indicates recognition of his expertise in the field. His laboratory website serves as a hub for disseminating research findings and connecting with collaborators worldwide.
The Mlodzik Laboratory operates at the intersection of developmental biology and cell signaling, utilizing Drosophila genetics, molecular biology, and advanced imaging techniques to unravel the complexities of cellular polarization during development. The lab maintains strong collaborations with other research groups at Mount Sinai and internationally, contributing to a vibrant research environment focused on understanding fundamental biological processes with implications for human health and disease.
