One of the critical processes in developing and regenerating organs is endoreplication: DNA synthesis without cell division. Despite its potential to increase cell size, whether and how endoreplication influences organ shape is largely unknown. In the Vásquez lab, Kazuma Fukuda is investigating the role of endoreplication in Drosophila renal tubule morphogenesis. He employs fly genetics and quantitative microscopy with computational segmentation to capture endoreplication and the physical behavior of the cells. This research aims to advance novel regenerative treatments for kidney diseases, offering viable alternatives to dialysis and transplantation.
