An ambitious EC-funded research initiative on epigenetics advancing towards systems biology

Our genome rapidly responds to dramatic changes in the environment, including harmful or dangerous conditions that can damage our DNA. The genome's ability to adapt to environmental changes is largely due to the remarkable properties of chromatin.  It is chromatin that maintains stable patterns of gene expression, yet also provides the flexibility needed to adapt. We are interested in this plasticity of chromatin; in the factors and mechanisms required for it to respond to changes.

Specifically, our group focuses on the ATP-dependent nucleosome remodeler Alc1/Chd1L, and the reaction to DNA damage. Using a combination of X-ray crystallography, in vitro kinetic studies, quantitative biophysical assays and live-cell imaging, we investigate the rapid and transient recruitment of Alc1 to sites of DNA damage, the interaction of Alc1 with the ribosyltransferase PARP1, and the resulting changes to the chromatin. These and other experiments allow us to better understand the fundamental mechanisms that regulate our complex genome, and its ability to adapt to new environments.

People involved in the lab:

• Dr. Markus Hassler, postdoc
• Marek Kozlowski, PhD student