Nucleic acids in gene regulation and maintenance
Our research delves into how genetic information is maintained in the cell, and the complex pathways that allow genes to be expressed
The flow of genetic information underpins all of biology and relies heavily on nucleic acids. Our research delves into how genetic information is maintained in the cell, and the complex pathways that allow genes to be expressed. We look at how DNA is replicated between generations, and how transcriptional networks and epigenetic regulation combine to turn genes on and off. We study the transcription of DNA into RNA, how RNA is processed and transported, and finally how the instructions encoded in RNA are used to build proteins. We employ a range of model organisms in our research, from vertebrates to plants and prokaryotes. Our goal is to understand these fundamental processes to better understand the rules of life.
This research theme is led by Dr Emma Thomson.
