My research focuses on the transgenesis of human embryonic stem cells with engineered bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) that express transgenes, such as GFP, under the control of developmentally regulated tissue-specific promoters. In particular, we have produced a transgenic line that specifically expresses GFP in spinal motor neurons. We are currently investigating the transplantation potential of enriched motor neuron populations, as well as their transcriptome and electrophysiological properties. We hope that our studies will help better understand human motor neuron biology and pathophysiology, with the ultimate goal of future cell replacement therapies for Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) and spinal cord injury.