Bayless' laboratory conducts research in molecular cellular medicine focusing on the mechanisms by which primary human endothelial cells invade three-dimensional matrices and the communication between invading endothelial cells and surrounding three-dimensional collagen matrices. The Bayless lab seeks to uncover the molecular signals that initiate angiogenesis, the process of new blood vessel formation from existing structures. Endothelial cells line blood vessels and often remain dormant for decades, but can respond rapidly to pro-angiogenic signals to initiate new blood vessel growth. The lab has demonstrated that a variety of cytoskeletal, adaptor, and transmembrane proteins are essential for this transition. The team continues to uncover new molecular pathways using genetic, biochemical, pharmacological, and microscopy techniques. Additionally, they are actively collaborating with multiple investigators to design biomaterials that promote angiogenesis and develop model systems to study lymphangiogenesis, angiogenic responses to nutraceutical compounds, decidualization, and tumor metastasis.