You are here:
Home
>>
RESEARCH
Synthetic Epigenetic
Views:898 Publish Time: 2019-07-04
Unlocking the Epigenetic Code: Synthetic Biology Meets Chromatin Engineering
Emerging insights into epigenetic regulation have revealed chromatin-associated pathways as master conductors of cellular identity, aging, and specialization. Our laboratory sits at the cutting edge of this revolution, uniquely bridging synthetic biology with epigenetic engineering to reimagine how we understand and manipulate life's molecular control systems. We pursue three transformative research frontiers:
1. Designing Epigenetic Control Modules
We hunt for nature's hidden toolbox – discovering novel chromatin regulators (including DNA/histone modifiers and epigenetic "switches") – then rewire them into synthetic circuits. Like building molecular dimmer switches for genes, we engineer these components to create programmable systems that precisely tune chromatin states, opening new possibilities for controlling cellular behavior.
2. Building Smart Cell Factories
Imagine microbes or mammalian cells with upgradable "epigenetic software"! We redesign chromatin architecture in industrial cells using synthetic pathways, achieving two breakthroughs:
Supercharged Bioproduction: Lock cells into high-performance metabolic states for sustainable chemical synthesis
Living Epigenetic Labs: Create cellular models to crack unanswered questions in development and disease
3. Precision Editing of Cellular Memory
We pioneer next-generation tools that edit epigenetic marks without altering DNA. Our dCas9-based editors act like molecular erasers and pens for chromatin, currently being optimized to:
Reset cancer cells by wiping out harmful epigenetic "memories" driving tumor growth
Develop safer epigenetic therapies that preserve genome integrity
