Description:

Abstract

To advance our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of sex-specific diseases, a deeper exploration of the X-chromosome structure and function is essential. In this talk, Dr. Lappala will delve into how data-driven 3D modeling techniques have provided novel insights into the X-chromosome organization and its role in health and disease. The presentation will cover the differences in chromosomal behavior between normal and compromised states, shedding light on the mechanisms of diseases linked to the X-chromosome. Dr. Lappala will also discuss how this approach reveals variations in gene expression and regulation, offering potential pathways for targeted therapies. Significantly, the talk will highlight how these modeling techniques, originally focused on the X-chromosome, are now being expanded to encompass entire genomes. This research initiative integrates advanced concepts from graph theory and soft matter physics to facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of chromosome dynamics. By integrating these diverse fields, we aim to enhance our understanding of the complex interplay among genetic components, making a substantial contribution to the fields of personalized medicine and genetic research.

About Dr. Anna Lappala

Lappala is a Department of Energy-funded PI at the Department of Molecular Biology at Harvard University and an affiliate of Los Alamos National Laboratory. Lappala’s transdisciplinary team focuses on computational biological and soft matter physics to address fundamental questions in biology, such as how DNA is organized in eukaryotic cells and how its complex dynamics controls and regulates gene expression. 

Free, registration required at https://tinyurl.com/29m74kr7