Our laboratory studies the biology of lysosomal enzymes, genes and diseases.  Two of the main projects in the lab are focused on the enzymes acid sphingomyelinase (deficient in Types A & B Niemann-Pick disease) and acid ceramidase (deficient in Farber Lipogranulomatosis or Farber disease).  We integrate the tools of molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology and other disciplines to understand the pathogenic mechanisms causing these disorders and to develop new therapies.  Our lab is responsible for the gene cloning of both enzymes, identification of the first mutations causing the human diseases, production and characterization of both human recombinant enzymes, and the construction of the first animal models for the human diseases.  This work has led to the first enzyme replacement therapy clinical trials for Niemann-Pick disease (collaboration with the Genzyme/Sanofi), institution of the first genetic screening program for this disorder throughout the world, and the formation of a new company (Plexcera Therapeutics) to develop enzyme therapy for Farber disease. We continue to work closely on the role of acid sphingomyelinase and acid ceramidase in lipid-mediated cell signaling and to understand how these enzyme and genes are involved in various other disease pathologies, including common disorders such as type II diabetes and monogenic disorders such as cystic fibrosis.   We also collaborate on the development of new therapies for another group of lysosomal storage disorders, the mucopolysaccharidoses.