Medical Genetics Branch

The Medical Genetics Branch (MGB) seeks to identify and understand inherited disorders of metabolism and of human development. MGB investigators focus on human genetics, vertebrate embryology, inborn errors of metabolism, and neurogenetic disorders. Projects performed at the biochemical, molecular, and cell biological levels involve the direct study of human subjects as well as the development and use of experimental model systems, such as zebrafish and mouse. The Branch fosters outstanding basic research and serves as a model for translational research, emphasizing the compassionate and scientifically rigorous application of basic science discoveries at the bedside. Branch researchers develop and test new diagnostic tests and treatments for patients with rare genetic disorders in the NIH Clinical Center.

To achieve their goals, MGB investigators use a variety of cutting-edge techniques to address questions regarding disease pathophysiology and human development. In addition to making extensive and selective use of genomic data, MGB researchers routinely capitalize on partnerships with key laboratories at NHGRI, NIH, and worldwide. The Branch attracts patients with rare disorders and engages in collaborations that have led to the acquisition of large sample sets from unique populations. Studies of these rare patients and populations have proven invaluable for advancing the mission of the Branch.

Senior Investigators

Maximilian Muenke, M.D.
Senior Investigator and Chief, Medical Genetics Branch
Head, Human Development Section
Director, Combined Pediatrics and Medical Genetics Residency Training Program

William A. Gahl, M.D., Ph.D.
Clinical Director, NHGRI
Senior Investigator, Medical Genetics Branch
Head, Human Biochemical Genetics Section

Dan Kastner, M.D., Ph.D.
Scientific Director, NHGRI
NIH Distinguished Investigator
Head, Inflammatory Disease Section

Ellen Sidransky, M.D.
Senior Investigator, Medical Genetics Branch
Head, Molecular Neurogenetics Section

Associate Investigators

Suzanne Hart, Ph.D.
Associate Investigator, Medical Genetics Branch
Deputy Director, Medical Genetics Residency and Fellowship Training Programs

Marjan Huizing, Ph.D.
Associate Investigator, Medical Genetics Branch
Head, Cell Biology of Metabolic Disorders Unit

Erich Roessler, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Investigator, Medical Genetics Branch
Human Development Section

Cynthia J. Tifft, M.D., Ph.D.
Deputy Clinical Director, NHGRI
Associate Investigator, Medical Genetics Branch

Adjunct Investigators

Carsten G. Bönnemann, M.D.
Senior Investigator and Chief
Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section, Neurogenetics Branch
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)

Raphaela Goldbach-Mansky, M.D., M.H.S.
Investigator, Pediatric Translational Research Branch, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Investigator and Acting Chief, Translational Autoinflammatory Disease Section, NIAMS

Training and Career Development Resources

• Medical Genetics Residency and Fellowship Training Programs
• Combined Pediatrics and Medical Genetics Residency Training Program

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Last Updated: September 26, 2012