Core Funding for the Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology

The Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Biology (WTCCB) is internationally renowned for its outstanding group leaders and research achievements in understanding the function and replication of eukaryotic cells. Genomic analyses of complex human diseases demonstrate both the importance of epigenetic processes and our limited mechanistic understanding. We therefore propose to focus on understanding key epigenetic mechanisms, bringing together the major themes of nuclear organisation, genome packaging and transmission, chromatin states and RNA biology. We will chart key interconnections between these processes, identifying mechanisms and regulation. WTCCB will combine genetics, biochemistry, genomics, mathematical modelling, imaging, synthetic biology and single cell analyses to address key questions: 1) Do epigenetic mechanisms drive or reflect changes in gene expression, in response to the environment, development and disease? 2) What are the functions of lncRNAs and other RNAs in regulating gene expression? 3) How is the genetic information faithfully transmitted during mitosis and meiosis? 4) How are changes in the structure of chromatin and other complexes linked to specific human diseases? To enhance the medical impact of our research, WTCCB will forge strategic alliances with experts in medical genetics. We will generate insights into mechanisms underlying human pathologies, potentially opening routes to longer-term therapeutic solutions.