April 26 2007
12:00 LSB 2320

Abstract:

Epigenetic pathways including RNA interference (RNAi), DNA methylation and histone modifications play critical roles in maintaining chromatin structure and function, defending the genome against invading DNA, and regulating gene expression. We use the flowering plant Arabidopsis thaliana as a model system to study these epigenetic mechanisms. By combining genetic and biochemical approaches with genomic tools such as high-through sequencing and high-density whole-genome tiling microarrays, we have generated genome-wide and high-resolution profiles of small RNAs, DNA methylation and histone modifications. These results provided large amounts of important information to understand the patterning, interaction as well as the biological functions of these epigenetic mechanisms.