Research
The Genome and Epigenome Engineering lab takes synthetic biology approaches to explore the principles of epigenetic regulation in mammalian cells. Epigenetic regulation plays a critical role in gene expression and development, and the ability to manipulate epigenome has great potential for disease treatment. We build and analyze synthetic epigenetic systems and 3D chromatin structures with the aim of creating novel genetic circuits capable of precisely manipulating and controlling epigenetic systems in a predictable manner. By combining expertise in epigenetics, super-resolution chromatin structure imaging (e.g. ORCA), engineering, and molecular biology, we seek to develop a deeper understanding of epigenetic regulation and create novel therapeutic strategies for treating diseases.
Measure + Model + Make
We combine molecular biology with engineering principles to design biological systems useful for cell therapy.
Measure
Do we understand 'biology' well enough? We aim to discover new biological insights using state-of-the-art techniques, including super-resolution chromatin imaging.
Model
Do we have design principles? We aim to translate the mechanistic insights we learn from the "Measure" step into genetic models (gene circuits), with the help of computational modeling.
Make
Can we build them? We aim to develop tools and platforms to build the genetic system we design and make useful changes to cells.
With this principle of synthetic biology in mind, our latest interest focus on understanding the basic grammar rules of chromatin regulation. We aim to understand, predict and control chromatin-mediated gene regulation to design better mammalian genome and epigenome engineering tools.
Measure
3D Chromatin
Structure Imaging (ORCA)
The imaging technique: Optical Reconstruction of Chromatin Architecture (ORCA)
Single-cell analysis of 3D chromatin structure using super-resolution imaging
Understanding the functional roles of chromatin 3D structure and organization for epigenetic regulation and gene regulation
Model
Eukaryotic
Synthetic Biology
Synthetic biology approach
Integrated circuit design in mammalian cells
Understanding minimal mechanistic rules and principles sufficient for epigenetic regulation
Understanding the Read-Write mechanism for epigenetic memory
Make
Genome and Epigenome
Engineering
Application of programmable epigenetic memory to cell therapy
Genome/Epigenome editing of pathological states