How does a developing embryo build tissues so reliably, even when individual cells behave variably? Especially in vertebrate systems, we often describe cell fate as “stochastic,” yet tissues form with remarkable precision. In the Wan Lab, we ask how biological systems turn variability into reproducible structure. Understanding these principles will not only uncover fundamental mechanisms of development, but also guide efforts to engineer cell types and tissues.

We approach this problem at three levels:

1. Cellular states
   What defines the “state” of a cell, and how does it bias fate decisions?
   We study how gene expression, signaling activity, and subcellular organization shape the potential of cells to adopt specific identities.
2. Developmental history
   How does a cell’s past influence its future?
   We investigate how lineage, cell division patterns, and movement through the tissue contribute to fate decisions and variability.
3. Mechanical forces
   How do physical forces shape tissues as they form?
   We explore how mechanical cues interact with molecular programs to guide morphogenesis and ensure coordinated tissue growth.

We use the zebrafish retina and early embryo as model systems. These systems are accessible to live imaging and genetic manipulation, allowing us to observe development across scales—from single molecules to whole tissues—in real time. By combining spatial transcriptomics, long-term imaging, and computational modeling, we aim to connect gene expression, cell behavior, and tissue architecture.