Genome Function

Thematic program focuses on understanding the mechanisms cells use to access the information in their genomes to grow and develop, to respond to the environment, to safeguard their genetic information, and how errors in these processes can lead to genetic disease.  The program includes study of DNA sequence and genetic variation, chromatin dynamics, gene regulation, epigenetic modification and inheritance, nuclear organization, and genome stability.   Investigators use a variety of established and cutting-edge approaches to interrogate genome function in multiple organisms including flies, mice, and humans.   Our interests include: 1) fine-scale mapping of non-coding genetic variation that affects enhancer function to determine the mechanisms by which disease-associated alleles induce atherosclerosis and hypertension,  2) examining how chromatin compaction alters nuclear shape and gene expression in laminopathies such as Emery-Driefuss Muscular Dystrophy and Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome, and 3) understanding how epigenetic changes cause hyper-mutation and chromosome damage, pushing healthy cells toward a cancer disease state.

Assistant Professor, Cellular and Molecular Medicine
(520) 626-8639

Developing new single-cell genomic technologies and applying those technologies to animal models and primary samples to better understand the gene regulatory basis of development and disease.
Professor, Cellular and Molecular Medicine
Chair, Genetics GIDP
Co-Program Leader, Cancer Biology Research Program
Professor, Cancer Biology GIDP
(520) 626-7979

Analyzing genomic instability in cancer susceptibility.
Associate Professor, Cellular and Molecular Medicine
Associate Professor, Clinical Translational Sciences
Associate Professor, Genetics GIDP
Associate Professor, Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center
Associate Professor, Cancer Biology GIDP
Member, BIO5 Institute
(520) 626-7244

Systems genetics approaches to identify mechanisms of complex disease.
Regents Professor, Cellular and Molecular Medicine
Director, Arizona Center for the Biology of Complex Diseases
Associate Director, Asthma and Airway Disease Research Center
Professor, BIO5 Institute
Professor, Genetics GIDP
(520) 626-6387

Genetic, epigenetic and environmental mechanisms that control susceptibility to complex lung diseases