Structural mechanism of genome acetylation and 3D folding

Chromosomes in our cells are folded in a precise manner to fit into the cell nucleus. Despite this compact folding, genes must be able to be switched on and off as required for normal cell function. Altering the structure of the compact DNA is necessary for gene activation and repression. One of the main regulators of the 3D genome architecture is cohesin, a ring shaped molecule. Using structural and functional analyses we will investigate how various accessory factors regulate cohesin function and 3D genome folding. In addition, we will investigate how DNA sequence-specific transcription factors bring chromatin modifying enzymes to particular positions in the genome to enable 3D genome folding and make these regions active. Our work has the potential to transform our understanding the molecular mechanism behind two key reactions that contribute short- and long-range 3D genome architecture and gene regulation.