Chromatin is the biological material that packages our genetic information. In humans, 2 meters of linear DNA is compacted into an approximately 6 μm nucleus. Our DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into proteins. Cellular phenotype, the composite of all cellular functions, is defined by the entire...
The purpose of my thesis research has been to understand the formation of mitotic chromosome structure by using chromosome micromanipulation. Folding mitotic chromosomes from their loose interphase form into their individualized, compacted form is required for easy handling of the chromosomes for cell division. This process is facilitated by several...
The overall goal of my thesis is to enhance our quantitative understanding of the biophysical properties of DNA a long polynucleotide chain, present in every living cell, that embodies the genetic information. The existence of DNA has been known to us for over a century, however, our understanding of its...
Eukaryotic gene transcription is a coordinated process involving the participation of a large number of proteins. Sequence-specific DNA-binding transcription factors function as activators or repressors of transcription and frequently recruit transcriptional coregulators that lack specific DNA-binding activity. These multi-protein complexes with intrinsic chromatin-modifying and chromatin-remodeling activities have emerged as key...
Angiogenesis, the formation of blood vessels from a pre-existing vasculature, is a process whereby capillary sprouts are formed in response to chemical stimuli that can be either supplied externally or produced locally.
Understanding of the fundamental mechanisms that govern angiogenesis suggests a powerful therapeutic approach that will allow to combat...
One of the current goals in the biomaterials research is to develop implants with improved osteoconductivity and long-term stability. Thanks to its chemical similarity to the mineral phase of natural bone, hydroxyapatite (HA) has been extensively studied and clinically tested as a coating on metallic substrates, to obtain bioactive implants...
