Mark Warchol

Mark Warchol is a Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery and the Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology at Washington University School of Medicine, focusing on inner ear development and regeneration mechanisms.

Education:

• BS in Physics, University of Washington, Seattle (1981)
• PhD in Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston (1989)

His research investigates molecular regulation of sensory receptor differentiation, including GATA3 transcription factor roles, PCP/JNK signaling in hair cell orientation, and epigenetic modifications (histone acetylation/DNA methylation) in regeneration. Current projects employ siRNA knockdown, small molecule inhibitors, and chick/mouse models to study ototoxic injury responses and stereocilia regrowth pathways.

Analysis of 2010-2014 publications reveals consistent emphasis on hair cell regeneration mechanisms across avian and mammalian models, with key themes including transcriptional networks (PAX/EYA/SIX), epigenetic regulators, and collaborative genomic approaches using microarrays and RNAi screening.

Dr. Warchol leads a research laboratory collaborating with Washington University's Department of Genetics on large-scale gene expression studies, utilizing organ cultures, in ovo chick models, and quantitative techniques to map regenerative pathways in sensory epithelia.