We are interested in
1) Genome / epigenome editing of disease-associated aberrations using CRISPR technology.
Mutations in protein coding-sequence and regulatory elements can cause altered gene expression which can cause diseases. Mis-regulated gene expression can be corrected by direct editing of genomic elements. Indeed, artificial transcription factors can regulate gene expression resulting rescue phenotypes. The fact that less than 2% of our genome encodes protein suggests regulatory elements are promising candidates for therapeutics. We aim to identify and develop strategy for correction of disease-associated aberrations using CRISPR and its derivative technology.
2) Identifying disease-associated functional lncRNAs using CRISPR library screening.
Non-coding RNA are not encoding proteins, regulates epigenetic environments to regulate gene expression, which has critical role in disease developments. Systematic functional studies of lncRNAs can be achieved.
CRISPR screen allows for functional studies of thousands of lncRNAs in manner of connecting genotype and phenotype. Using this, we screen lncRNAs affecting tumor microenvironment adaptation. These studies will provide novel understands and therapeutic approaches to treat the cancer.
3) Identifying regulatory elements of cancer using ATAC-seq
In eukaryotes, gene expression is from “accessible genome”, which allows for binding of transcription factors. The accessible genome is strongly specific to the and developmental stage and cell fate. Monitoring the accessible genome provides the information of gene expression and regulation. Using ATAC-seq, a technology for rapid and efficient identification of accessible genome, we are exploring the disease-associated active genome and their function.
4) Development of new methods for genome / epigenome editing
Programmable nucleases are the most promising technology for research and medicine future, we develop its applications and improve the “molecular machinery” for genome editing and gene regulation.