A diverse range of biological phenomena requires the precise and coordinated control of gene expression. Although the key concept of gene regulation has been learned from early biochemical studies with DNA template, exactly how transcription is regulated by chromatin dynamics and what key factors are involved in these processes are not fully understood. Our laboratory studies the regulation of gene expression in humans and other animals. We focus, in particular, on chromatin dynamics and transcription by RNA polymerase II (Pol II). The understanding of these critical processes will have a broad impact on a diverse range of biological research, including development and cancer biology. Our experimental approaches include biochemical, genomic and computational strategies to understand Pol II transcription in the eukaryotic nucleus.
