Blanche Capel

James B. Duke Distinguished Professor of Cell Biology
Blanche Capel
Blanche Capel

Overview

In mammals, the primary step in male sex determination is the initiation of testis development in the bipotential gonad primordium. This step depends on the Y-linked male sex-determining gene, Sry. Expression of Sry in the XY gonad, or as a transgene in an XX gonad, leads to the differentiation of Sertoli cells. Failures in Sertoli cell differentiation in the XY gonad result in sex reversal and ovary formation. In addition to Sertoli cell differentiation, we are studying the signaling pathways between Sry expression and early steps in testis organogenesis using mouse as a model system. Using genetic and cell biology approaches, we determined the origin of several key cell types of the testis. We also identified two pathways, proliferation and cell migration, that are controlled by Sry and lead to the architectural patterning of the testis. Currently we are investigating the novel hypothesis that reciprocal signals between the vasculature and Sertoli cells are involved in patterning testis cords. Testis organogenesis is an ideal model system to study the integration of vasculature during development of organ structure. In addition, we are investigating critical signals between Sertoli cells and germ cells during testis cord formation. Defects in these signals result in teratomas and gonadal blastomas, common neoplasias in young boys. Experimental approaches include the use of molecular and biochemical techniques, mutant mice, transgenics, organ culture assays, differential screens, immunocytochemistry imaging techniques, and classic mouse genetics.

Positions

James B. Duke Distinguished Professor of Cell Biology in the School of Medicine

2010 School of Medicine

Professor of Cell Biology in the School of Medicine

2005 School of Medicine

Member of the Duke Cancer Institute in the School of Medicine

1993 School of Medicine

Affiliate of the Duke Regeneration Center in the School of Medicine

2021 School of Medicine

Education

Ph.D. 1989

1989 University of Pennsylvania

Publications, Grants & Awards

Offices & Contact

307 Research Drive, Nanaline Bldg Room 452
Durham, NC
27710
Duke Box 3709 Med Ctr
Durham, NC
27710