The focus of our lab is on the molecular genetics of myelination, both during development and in pathological conditions. Myelin is a multi-lamellar structure required for normal axonal conduction, and in peripheral nerve is synthesized by Schwann cells. Schwann cells and axons exchange signals that are necessary for each others survival, differentiation and maintenance. Several human diseases are caused by genetic failure of Schwann cells to myelinate axons, and to communicate with axons. As a result, axons degenerate causing significant disability. We are interested in elucidating the molecular basis of Schwann cell-axon signalling and myelination.