Dr. Andl has a long-standing interest in epithelial biology and upper-aero-digestive diseases. Her research program focuses on oral and esophageal biology and the role of cell signaling in tissue homeostasis. The studies in her laboratory show that the disruption of homeostasis is dependent on epithelial-mesenchymal crosstalk. The use of innovative three-dimensional organotypic reconstruct cultures allows to investigate the signaling pathways and molecular events as well as the manipulation and analysis of both, the epithelial and the mesenchymal compartment. This line of research is complemented by in vivo models and studies aiming to improve patient outcome.