The Intersection of Normal Development and Tumor Biology
For the past 25 years, we have focused on discovering the genomic, genetic, cellular and molecular determinants that cause nervous system dysfunction in people with NF1 by leveraging a combination of novel genetically engineered mice and human induced pluripotent stem cells.
What is NF?
Nervous system development is regulated by a highly orchestrated series of cellular and molecular events. When a genetic mutation disrupts these processes, disorders of the brain and nerves arise. One of the most common of these neurogenetic disorders is Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), in which children are at risk for brain and nerve tumors, vision loss, learning problems, autism, and developmental disabilities.
The goal of this work is not only to establish new treatments for individuals with NF1, but also to better understand similar medical problems in the general population. We seek to identify the factors that underlie nervous system disease heterogeneity relevant to the implementation of precision, or personalized, medicine strategies.
David H. Gutmann, MD, PhD
Areas of Interest
Neuronal Influences on Cancer
Stem Cells in Brain Development & Cancer
Tumor Microenvironment & Immunology
Modeling Human Neurologic Disease
Nervous System Growth Regulation
Sex Differences in Brain Function
Our Team
Our team is comprised of researchers at all levels of training who bring their individual talents and expertise to the scientific problems being explored in our laboratory.
Trainee Opportunities
We welcome dedicated trainees at all levels of training to participate in laboratory research and development opportunities through our laboratory and its affiliated programs.
Neurofibromatosis Center
The Washington University Neurofibromatosis Center is a collaboration between clinicians and laboratory scientists focused on accelerating the pace of scientific discovery and its application to the care of individuals with NF.