Exploring Epigenetic Regulation Through Arabidopsis: Overcoming Limitations of Animal Models

Event Introduction:

Signature Work Wednesdays provide the opportunity for faculty to present their research to students in an accessible way to inspire SW projects. If you are considering SW projects, looking for a mentor or just want to learn more about our fabulous faculty and their unique and innovative research, this is a great format! We look forward to seeing you on SWednesdays!

Date & Time

Date: Sep. 27

Time: 12:00-1:00pm (CST)

Venue: IB 3106

*Light refreshments will be provided

Speaker:

Prof. Joohyun Lee

Assistant Professor of Biology at Duke Kunshan University

Abstract:

Epigenetic regulation involves modifying gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, and these changes can be inherited across cells and/or generations. However, the lethality of epigenetic mutants in animal models has limited research. Lee lab exploits a plant model using various molecular and bioinformatic analysis, including large-scale transcriptome, small RNA seq, DNA methylome, and chromatin modification (ChIP seq) analysis, to investigate the mechanisms underlying epigenetic regulation, which are highly conserved in higher eukaryotes.

Bio:

Dr. Lee is a molecular geneticist whose research focuses on understanding the epigenetic regulation of chromatin switches in response to environmental cues. Epigenetic regulation involves modifying gene expression without altering the DNA sequence, and these changes can be inherited across cells and/or generations. However, the lethality of epigenetic mutants in animal models has limited research into the mechanisms underlying the maintenance of epigenetic modifications in response to environmental signals. To address these questions, Dr. Lee’s lab utilizes Arabidopsis thaliana, a plant species tolerant of epigenetic mutations. They employ various genetic, molecular and bioinformatic analyses, including large-scale transcriptome, small RNA sequencing, DNA methylome analysis, and chromatin modification (ChIP sequencing), to investigate the highly conserved mechanisms underlying epigenetic regulation in higher eukaryotes.

Dr. Lee holds a Ph.D. from Dartmouth College and previously served as a faculty member at Amherst College before joining Duke Kunshan University. Lee lab is looking for students interested in biology and data science as majors for upcoming SW opportunities.