Ela W. Knapik, M.D.

We have focused our research on three main areas:

(i) The mechanisms and pathways directing extracellular matrix traffic and deposition

(ii) The pathophysiology of diseases, including developmental and neuropsychiatric disorders

(iii) Modeling of human variants for drug development and testing

The Knapik laboratory uses in vivo approaches in zebrafish (Danio rerio) because this model system is superbly suited for genetic and developmental analyses by being accessible for manipulation and direct live observation. We use genetic mutants induced by CRISPR genome editing or chemically induced random variants to assess developmental phenotypes, gene function and pathway interactions. In parallel, we use mammalian cell culture and biochemical approaches.

(i) Disruptions in the synthesis, processing or secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) macromolecules are associated with human diseases, including osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), multiple epiphyseal dysplasia, cranio-lenticulo-sutural dysplasia, and congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG). Our laboratory has successfully modeled these human diseases in zebrafish and contributed to understanding basic developmental mechanisms and cellular pathways that direct ECM traffic and deposition. Using phenotype-driven forward genetic screens and positional cloning, we have identified point mutations responsible for skeletal malformations in zebrafish, and currently, we are working to show how defects in the secretory pathway affect skeletal biology, chondrocyte cell shape and ECM deposition.

(ii) Additionally, we are modeling Mendelian disorders such as chylomicron retention disease and zinc transporter deficits, as well as comorbidities associated with complex neuropsychiatric diseases (ASD, MDD, SCZ, BD, ADHD, OCD) such as skeletal dysmorphology, seizures and gastrointestinal disturbances. In collaboration with the Vanderbilt Genetics Institute (VGI) investigators, we examine effects of genetic variation, identified by statistical genetic methods in BioVU, on gene function and resulting phenotypic spectrum. Using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, we are generating zebrafish knockout and transgenic lines that are evaluated by in vivo and ex vivo methods for discovery of primary genetic mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of these diseases.

(iii) Zebrafish is ideally suited for modeling of human single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes identified through BioVU variant investigations. We can test whether a specific SNP increases or decreases gene activity, thus altering protein function, such as receptor activity. These models are particularly helpful in testing responses to known pharmacological agents and in drug screens for new pharmaceuticals. We are using CRISPR/Cas9–based knockout and knockin strategies in stable zebrafish lines that are then evaluated for phenotype and gene function. This early functional genomics assessment model offers rapid and powerful tool in drug discovery pipeline.