The Kong Lab uses a combination of stem cells, CRISPR/Cas9 screens, mouse genetics, and biochemical assays to study the signaling pathways that are essential for embryonic development. We are particularly interested in understanding the mechanisms that modulate a cell’s response to extracellular cues like morphogens and how defects in these processes result in birth defects. Our research currently focuses on understanding how a receiving cell modulates its sensitivity to extracellular cues by regulating the abundance of key receptors at its cell surface. Future goals include designing tools to manipulate morphogen signaling sensitivity in adult tissues to facilitate wound healing and regeneration.