Chromatin Architecture, Transcription & Genomics Laboratory
KEYWORDS: Genomics, Epigenetics,
Chromatin Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Systems biology, Bioinformatics, Computational biology, Gene
regulation, Next-generation sequencing (NGS), Genome assembly, DNA sequence analysis,
Computational tool development, Cancer drug
resistance, Pharmaco(epi)genomics, Pathogen genomics, Liver biology, Aging, Nutri(epi)genomics,
Epi/genome editing, Machine learning
One
of the miracles of living systems is how cells adopt different identities
(phenotypes) utilizing the same genetic information. This encrypted information
is processed dynamically from the condensed structure of DNA – chromatin – where
combinatorial patterns of epigenetic modifications specify distinct genome
functions to determine cellular states. The stability of chromatin organization
and its plasticity to change are precisely titrated during normal development
and physiology under the influence of genetic, environmental and metabolic
stimuli contributing to cell-fate decisions leading to cell-state transitions.
These cell-state transitions are key in many biological processes, be it
development, differentiation and pathological conditions such as cancer and
metabolic disorders.
The Sanyal Lab aims to decipher
systems-level understanding of genome function that controls cellular identity
and phenotypic plasticity using NGS (next-generation sequencing)-based genomics
experiments combined with bioinformatics and computational approaches. The lab is highly interdisciplinary in nature and uses a variety of model organisms.
We employ systems biology approach to integrate different types of
genome-scale data to understand transcriptional regulatory programs. The lab provides a vibrant work
environment which fosters ethical integrity, diversity, equality and
inclusiveness. We strive to provide a lab atmosphere where all members are treated
equally and fairly, and empower them to voice their opinions through
open and honest communication. In the longer term, we aspire to develop a challenge-ready
generation of scientific minds cross-trained in wet and dry lab who can
contribute to society through their innovation, leadership and social
engagements.