EPIGENETIC REGULATION OF GENE EXPRESSION

In the nucleus, DNA is wrapped around histone proteins (i.e. nucleosomes). This combination of DNA, histones and other proteins is referred to as chromatin. Both the DNA and proteins in this complex are susceptible to modifications which can alter the chromatin structure and consequently influence gene transcription. Changes in gene transcription can influence cell fate and physiology and have been shown to be altered in diseases such as heart failure. Because more people die from heart disease than any other pathology, the Franklin lab is interested in identifying the epigenetic factors that regulate gene transcription in the heart during disease progression. To do this, the lab uses a combination of proteomics, mass spectrometry, biochemistry and molecular biology to elucidate the role of histone isoforms, post-translational modifications and other chromatin binding proteins on chromatin structure and gene accessibility. Additionally, the Franklin lab also determines how these factors contribute to the regulation of heart morphology and physiology.

MASS SPECTROMETRY

The Franklin lab is equipped with an Orbitrap Velos Pro Mass Spectrometer which allows state-of-the art analysis of proteins and peptides.