Dr. Deneen Wellik

Biography

Deneen M. Wellik is a Professor at the Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine Center of the University of Wisconsin – Madison. Her laboratory investigates the roles of Hox genes in development, disease, and repair regeneration using mouse models. Hox genes are highly conserved across evolution and play critical roles in developmental patterning and organogenesis. Recent findings from her lab indicate that Hox-expressing cells are retained in postnatal tissues and organs, suggesting that mesenchymal stem and precursor cells are vital for the maintenance and repair of these organs and tissues. Through her focus on mouse developmental genetics, Wellik's research delves into the functions of Hox genes in development, regeneration, and responses to disease. She is currently engaged in exploring the musculoskeletal and lung organ systems to uncover the mechanisms by which Hox genes direct developmental processes, with the long-term goal of applying this knowledge to enhance regenerative therapies.

Research Interests