John Denu
Credentials: Biomolecular Chemistry Department
Position title: Mechanisms of chromatin dynamics, epigenetics, metabolism, and signaling
Email: jmdenu@wisc.edu
Phone: (608) 316-4341
Address:
2178 Wi Inst For Discovery
333 N Randall Ave
Madison, WI 53715
LAB WEBSITE:
FOCUS GROUPS:
Cellular & Molecular Metabolism; Transcriptional Mechanisms
RESEARCH DESCRIPTION:
Chromatin remodeling enzymes rely on co-enzymes derived from metabolic pathways, suggesting coordination between nuclear events and metabolic networks. Investigations are underway to understand the link between metabolism and the regulation of epigenetic mechanisms. We are testing the hypothesis that certain chromatin modifying complexes have evolved to exquisitely ‘sense’ metabolite levels and respond accordingly, modifying specific chromatin loci for altered gene expression. We are particularly interested in the aging process and how metabolism and the structure of chromatin affect the gene expression programming of the genome in age-dependent manner. In addition, we are exploring the role of the microbiome in mediating phenotypes associated with dysregulation of the epigenome, and those conditions linked to human disease. The group uses genetic, proteomic and metabolomic tools to address these questions.