Our research is focused on determining mechanisms involved in avian skeletal muscle development. This research utilizes a number of cell culture and biochemical techniques. We are examining the effects of growth factors on avian skeletal muscle development using myogenic satellite cells in culture. More specifically, ongoing projects include examination of heterogeneity in the population of satellite cells with respect to growth factor response. Another project is focused on characterization of satellite cells from a genetic line with muscular weakness and abnormal extracellular matrix chemistry.
Studies are also underway to examine satellite cells from an animal model of muscular dystrophy.
Proliferation of the Turkey Myogenic Satellite Cell in a Serum-Free Medium. McFarland, Douglas C., Jane E. Pesall, Kysa K. Gilkerson and Neal H. Ferrin. Comparison of The Proliferation and Differentiation of Myogenic Satellite Cells and Embryonic Myoblasts Derived From the Turkey. McFarland, Douglas C. 1992. Cell Culture as a Tool for The Study of Poultry Skeletal Muscle Development.