APPEL LAB

UNDERSTANDING THE BIOLOGY OF BRAIN DEVELOPMENT

How do cells build and maintain the nervous system?

The Appel Lab investigates the genetic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms that shape the developing nervous system, with a particular focus on glial biology and myelination using zebrafish as a model system.

Our Research

Cell Fate and Glial Cell Heterogeneity

Myelination

Maternal & Immune Regulation

Recent Publication

HOW OLIGODENDROCYTES SELECT AXONS FOR MYELINATION

Our research, led by recent Ph.D. graduate Natalie Carey, has shown how molecular machinery helps select axons for myelination and regulates myelin sheath growth.
Nature Communications (2026) Jun 29;17(1):81236

Read the paper

Meet the Appel Lab

We aim to create a lab environment where all feel welcome and supported and everyone can be successful. We recognize that science is enriched when it is practiced by people from diverse backgrounds and we are committed to the principles of inclusiveness and equity. We strive to perform rigorous, cutting-edge research, engage in impactful scholarship, conduct ourselves with professionalism and integrity, and help one another become better scientists and educators.

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