Welcome to the Barrow Lab
Our Research Focus
My laboratory is dedicated to understanding how genes shape the three-dimensional architecture of organs during development. Our goal is to uncover the mechanisms by which genetic information is translated into complex, functional anatomy.
To address this fundamental question, we have developed extensive expertise in precise genome engineering in the chicken—a powerful and underutilized model for studying vertebrate development. As the chicken embryo develops in ovo, it is accessible, allowing us (after we have introduced defined genetic changes) to observe developmental consequences of these genetic modifications in real time.
Central to our approach is a genomic “safe harbor” locus we have identified and characterized, which we call Oasis. This site lies approximately 100 kb from the nearest gene and exists in an open chromatin configuration across cell types, making it an ideal platform for stable and predictable transgene expression. We have established a streamlined pipeline that enables rapid and efficient targeting of genetic constructs to the Oasis locus.
Our strategy involves introducing engineered constructs into the Oasis locus of chicken primordial germ cells (cPGCs) (Figure 1). These genetically modified cPGCs are then transplanted into early-stage embryos, where they migrate to and colonize the developing gonad, generating germline chimeras. The resulting birds are raised to adulthood and transmit the engineered allele to their offspring, establishing stable transgenic lines.
To further enhance efficiency, we developed an inducible sterile host line, DAZL–iCasp9, which allows donor cPGCs to be introduced into a germline-ablated embryo. This innovation dramatically improves germline transmission and accelerates the production of transgenic chickens.
Together, these tools form a robust and scalable platform (outlined in Figure 2) that enables the introduction of virtually any genetic construct into the Oasis locus within a matter of months. This system provides a powerful foundation for dissecting gene function and for exploring how genetic programs sculpt organ form in three dimensions.
Figure 1
Figure 2
Dr. Jeffery Barrow
Cell Biology and Physiology Professor
3049 LSB
Phone: 801-422-9308
jeff_barrow@byu.edu
Curriculum Vitae