Genetic approaches to dissect the role of cohesion in gene regulation

Cohesin is a protein complex best known for its role in chromosome biology, but recent work suggests additional functions in gene expression, development and cancer. Research in Professor Merkenschlager's lab demonstrated that cohesin regulates gene expression independently of its canonical functions in the cell cycle. This realisation opened a new perspective on gene regulation, in line with growing awareness of the importance of higher order genome organisation. The aim of his research is to uncover the mechanisms by which cohesin regulates gene expression and eventually suggest approaches to the management of clinical conditions where cohesin function is compromised.