Research

From Vascular Disorders to Treatment Discovery

The zebrafish is the second most widely used animal model in biomedical research and is essential for translational science due to its strong genetic similarity to humans. This genetic proximity, together with transparent embryos and rapid development outside the body, enables non-invasive, real-time observation of complex biological processes at a scale not possible in most mammalian models. Zebrafish are ideally suited for large-scale genetic manipulation, CRISPR-based genome editing, and high-throughput drug screening, allowing us to uncover disease mechanisms and test therapies quickly and efficiently. In our lab, we aim to develop new therapies for rare human developmental disorders, using zebrafish-based drug screening.

Organ-Specific Vascular Functions in Health, Disease, and Repair

Blood and lymphatic vessels are highly specialized and adapt their identities to the organs they serve. In our lab, we study how these vessels communicate with surrounding tissues, including immune cells, hematopoietic cells, neurons, and stromal cells, to guide vascular development, support organ function, and enable regeneration after injury. Our work spans diverse contexts, from vascular regulation of hematopoietic niches to the formation and function of cardiac lymphatic networks, revealing how vascular communication shapes tissue homeostasis and repair.

Building and Remodeling Specialized Vascular Networks

What if lymphatic cells could transform into blood vessels? At the Yaniv Lab, we uncover surprising twists in vascular biology—from transdifferentiation in zebrafish fins to the secrets of the brain’s blood–brain barrier.

Discover how specialized vessels form, adapt, and even switch identities—shedding light on diseases, regeneration, and the inner workings of the neurovascular system.