A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR

  This is the most exciting of times for the basic scientist. The opportunities to advance the frontiers of knowledge parallels the bright prospect for early translation of discoveries into diagnostics and therapeutics. Never in the history of the biomedical sciences has progress in the acquisition of basic information and its practical application been so rapid. To note only one of the most compelling examples, the mapping and sequencing of the human genome is almost complete, and the connections between genes and disease have never been clearer. Impressive strides have been made in understanding the influence and expression of genes in inherited disorders and in developing new approaches to treatment of these and other diseases.

The Institute for Cell and Developmental Biology has the objective of understanding how basic molecular and cellular processes control the growth, differentiation and function of a wide variety of organisms. For example, researchers at the Institute have shown that genes active in controlling the onset of leukemia in people are closely related to genes that function as regulators in fruit flies, giving leukemia research a new model for understanding the genesis of this disease.

We invite you to join with us in exploring these exciting new frontiers!

Cordially,

William J. Lennarz

Institute Contact Information