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How cells find their identity?

One genome, Multiple phenotypes

When cardiomyocytes differentiate from embryonic stem cells, these two different types of cells have an identical genotype but exhibit distinct phenotypes. This is due to the difference in gene expression and epigenetics is to study how cells regulate gene expression in a context-dependent manner.

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histone methylation and chromatin struct

Chromatin structure and gene expression

Recent research has broadened its scope to examine the intricate relationship between histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) and the three-dimensional organization of chromatin, shedding light on the highly regulated nature of cell-type specific gene expression. 

We seek to comprehend how the arrangement of chromatin is dynamically controlled in both space and time throughout the development process, and how this regulation influences the subsequent expression of genes.

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Cardio-Epigenetics

We are exploring how the cytoskeleton, nucleoskeleton, and chromatin collaborate to facilitate the contraction function of cardiomyocytes. Our research aims to understand the involvement of these components and to explore their contributions to the development of diseases related to cardiac muscle.

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Reprogramming cardiomyocytes
for regeneration 

We are investigating how heterochromatin is regulated during cardiomyocyte differentiation. Our goal is to understand how cells adapt to the new environment to protect cells from mechanical stress and become functional cardiomyocytes. This basic understanding will provide new therapeutic approaches to cure heart-related diseases.

 

We are investigating new biological pathways and mechanisms that promote cardiomyocyte proliferation (regeneration).

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Epigenetics and Neurodevelopment

The malfunction of epigenetic processes has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, highlighting their importance in understanding and potentially addressing these conditions. Our focus involves analyzing mutations identified in neurodevelopmental disorders and delving into the mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of these disorders.

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Cancer Epigenetics

Non-mutational epigenomic reprogramming, characterized by alterations in DNA methylation patterns, histone modifications, and chromatin structure, has emerged as a distinctive hallmark of cancer. These epigenetic changes can profoundly impact gene expression, contributing to oncogenesis, tumor heterogeneity, and therapeutic resistance.

 

Our goal is to grasp the dynamic changes in epigenetic reprogramming in cancer, aiming to provide new perspectives for diagnosing and treating cancer more effectively.

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