Research

Our research aims to elucidate the mechanisms of gene regulation, with a particular focus on the role of chromatin-modifying factors, including chromatin remodelers and histone acetyltransferases. These enzymes are crucial for regulating coordinated changes in gene expression during normal development, and their dysregulation is implicated in various diseases, such as cancer. We investigate these processes through three interconnected angles:

​

• Fundamental Mechanisms of Chromatin and Transcriptional Regulation: We explore the basic principles governing chromatin dynamics and transcriptional control, and how their disruption contributes to diseases like cancer.​

• Role in Developmental Programs: We examine how chromatin-modifying factors influence developmental pathways, shedding light on their critical functions in growth and differentiation.​

• Context-Dependent Functions of Paralogues: We investigate the specialized roles of duplicated genes, known as paralogues, in different cell types, focusing on their context-specific activities.

We combine techniques in molecular biology, stem cell biology, functional genomics, and bioinformatics to unravel the complex relationships between chromatin, transcription, and gene expression. Through our research we aim to generate new insights into basic biology, disease mechanisms, and potential therapeutic approaches.