Formation, function, and resolution of R-loop structures

Dr Chedin's lab is studying the formation, function, and resolution of R-loop structures, a class of non-B DNA structures that form during transcription upon re-annealing of the nascent RNA transcript to one strand of the DNA duplex. Genome-wide mapping data from their studies established that R-loop structures are the most abundant non-B DNA structures in mammalian genomes and suggests that they represent a novel type of cis-acting DNA element. Main research themes are:

• Developing and improving genomics technologies to map R-loop formation.
• Understanding the mechanisms by which R-loops are formed, sensed, and dynamically resolved.
• Analyzing the relationship between R-loop structures and genome stability.
• Elucidating how dysfunctions in R-loop metabolism are linked to human diseases.

To address these topics, his group makes use of innovative (epi)genomics tools, mammalian cell culture and imaging assays, biochemical assays, proteomic methods, and computational approaches.