Genitourinary Development Lab
Uncovering How the Urinary & Reproductive Systems Develop
The Genitourinary Development Laboratory at Nemours Children’s focuses on how the urinary and reproductive systems form before birth, and why they sometimes develop differently.
The genitourinary (GU) tract includes organs like the kidneys, bladder, and reproductive structures. When development doesn’t follow the usual path, it can lead to congenital urological conditions, or birth defects.
Our researchers study two of the most common conditions: undescended testes (when one or both testicles don’t move into the proper position before birth), and hypospadias (when the opening of the urethra isn’t in the typical place on the penis). These conditions are common, but still not fully understood.
Our team combines molecular biology, genetics, and developmental science to uncover the cellular signals that guide how the GU tract forms. We use both animal models and donated human samples to study how changes in these signals can cause structural differences. Understanding these early processes helps us develop new ways to care for children, today and in the future.
Principal Investigator
Abhishek Seth, MD, MS
Principal Scientist
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR RESEARCH
- Research Interests
- Impact & Innovation
Our Areas of Focus
Studying How the Ubiquitination Pathway Shapes Development
Our lab studies a process called the ubiquitination pathway, which controls how proteins work and when they are broken down. We’re learning how this process guides the growth of tissues in the developing urinary and reproductive systems. When it doesn’t function properly, it may lead to structural changes that cause urological birth defects.
Investigating the Causes of Undescended Testes & Hypospadias
We focus on the molecular and genetic factors that lead to undescended testes and hypospadias. These conditions affect many children but have complex causes. By identifying key genes and signaling pathways, we hope to explain why these conditions develop, and how they could be prevented or treated in new ways.
Translating Lab Discoveries Into Patient Care
Our work connects laboratory science with clinical care. We collaborate with pediatric urologists to test our findings in human samples and explore how what we learn in the lab might improve care and outcomes for children.
Research Partnerships
We strengthen our research through collaboration with other Nemours programs. Our lab works closely with the Center for Applied Clinical Genomics and the Biomedical Research Informatics Center. We also partner with the Biobank & Molecular Analysis Program, Histochemistry & Tissue Processing Core Lab, and Cell Science Core to expand our capabilities and further discovery.
Recent Research Highlights
Defining the Role of KCTD13
Our team discovered that mutations in the KCTD13 gene (which helps regulate how proteins are processed in cells) are linked to lower urinary tract and genital anomalies in both mice and humans. By studying this gene in detail, we’re learning how it helps shape normal penile and testicular development, and what happens when it doesn’t work as expected.
Advancing Molecular Targets for Future Therapies
Our research is forming future diagnostic and therapeutic innovations in pediatric urology. By mapping how key ubiquitin-related genes control GU development, we’re helping identify molecular targets that could guide gene-based testing or new treatments for congenital urological conditions. While still early-stage, this work represents the kind of discovery science that can lead to new molecular tools or biomarkers with real-world potential.
Grants & Awards
Our research is supported through competitive federal funding that helps drive discovery and innovation in pediatric science.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
R01 Grant | The Role of E3-Ubiquitin Ligase Complex in Genitourinary Tract Development and Function (2020-2025) | Seth, A. (PI)
Research in Context
Our lab contributes to research that informs pediatric care and connects to broader areas of scientific study at Nemours.
General (Pediatric) Surgery
CLINICAL CARE
Comprehensive surgical care for infants, children, and teens across the Nemours system, with teams based in Delaware Valley and Florida.
Urology
CLINICAL CARE
Personalized care for children and teens with urinary and reproductive conditions, from Nemours pediatric urology experts.