Understanding Function
Several CHGR investigators are conducting basic research in order to understand how human genes work at the molecular and cellular levels. Their research is aimed at understanding a range of biochemical, physiological and developmental processes that are controlled by gene activity. The data gained from these projects will help us better understand how genes, and the proteins they generate, function together to enable human health. Often, these studies employ the use of model organisms such as mice or zebrafish. Our research is geared at several topics, including the following:
Gene regulation: While the primary function of most genes is to encode protein molecules that have various biochemical functions, the large majority of DNA in the human genome (>98%) does not encode proteins. What is the role of this “noncoding” DNA in human health? Much of this DNA seems to be involved in controlling when and where genes are functioning in the body. Several CHGR investigators are mapping out these control sequences. Surprisingly, these are often separated from protein-coding genes by long stretches of DNA.
Neural crest: During embryonic development, cells move around the growing body to mold many tissues, such as the facial skeleton and the nerves that control movement of food through the intestines. Several CHGR labs are studying key genes that dictate how these cells carry out the critical tasks of creating these structures and allowing them to function.
Gene regulation: While the primary function of most genes is to encode protein molecules that have various biochemical functions, the large majority of DNA in the human genome (>98%) does not encode proteins. What is the role of this “noncoding” DNA in human health? Much of this DNA seems to be involved in controlling when and where genes are functioning in the body. Several CHGR investigators are mapping out these control sequences. Surprisingly, these are often separated from protein-coding genes by long stretches of DNA.
Neural crest: During embryonic development, cells move around the growing body to mold many tissues, such as the facial skeleton and the nerves that control movement of food through the intestines. Several CHGR labs are studying key genes that dictate how these cells carry out the critical tasks of creating these structures and allowing them to function.