Chromatin Dynamics In Genome Integrity
(ChroDIGI)
Start date: Sep 1, 2011,
End date: Aug 31, 2015
PROJECT
FINISHED
I have developed a research program that focuses on the role of chromatin in epigenetic inheritance and genome integrity. I am pursuing three lines of research both in the model organism S.cerevisiae and in human cells: First, I am exploring the role of chromatin regulatory factors in eukaryotic DNA replication. S phase is a precarious phase in the cell cycle and chromosome stability and subsequent cell proliferation depend heavily on the accurate execution of the DNA replication process. Therefore it is of major importance to understand the chromatin-mediated mechanisms that are essential for the maintenance of genome integrity during S phase. Second, I am investigating the mechanisms that control the propagation of the epigenetic information on chromatin. The epigenetic information as defined by chromatin structures influences the state and fate of the cell. My goal is to shed light on the mechanisms that control the proliferation of specialized chromatin structures during S phase. Third, I am investigating the effect of chromatin remodeling factors in aneuploidy in yeast and human cells. Aneuploidy is a hallmark for cancer and promotes tumorigenesis. My goal is to understand the role of chromatin remodeling factors in coordinating chromatin dynamics with cell separation, thus preventing aneuploidy and genetic instability. Focusing my studies on two model factors, the histone variant H2A.Z and the multifaceted ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complex INO80, and combining high-throughput technology with the power of yeast genetics and the imaging capabilities of human cells, I plan to uncover novel pathways that are essential for genome stability and propagation of epigenetic information.
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