Description:

“Uncovering Gene Regulation Mechanism Through 3D Genome and Proteomics Approaches”

Abstract:

Over 98% of the human genome consists of non-coding sequences, many of which are crucial for gene regulation by acting as cis-regulatory elements (CREs). These CREs interact with various regulatory proteins, and undergo DNA and histone modifications through epigenetic mechanisms. Notably, CREs form a complex 3D structure that controls spatial-temporal gene expression. Thus, understanding the protein bindings and biochemical modifications at CREs, as well as their 3D organization, is essential to grasp the basics of gene expression control. In this seminar, I will discuss recent technologies we have developed to study the spatial interactions of CREs at single cell levels, and methods to identify regulatory proteins that affect gene expression. Using stem cells and their differentiation as a model system, our results also reveal new mechanisms of gene regulation important for stem cell fate control in development and regeneration. 

Short Bio:

Yarui Diao, PhD is the Principal Investigator of the Laboratory of Regeneration Genomics in the Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center. As a dedicated functional genomics lab, his group focuses on advancing genomic technologies to investigate the intricate relationship between chromatin structure and gene regulation. Combining his background in cell biology with genomics approaches, he is particularly enthusiastic about unraveling the mechanisms involved in tissue regeneration during injury, diseases, and aging.