My laboratory studies stem cells. These are unique cells that give rise to many different types of cells, while also renewing themselves. We are determining which genes control stem cell function. In the long term this may advance the therapeutic use of stem cells to regenerate damaged tissues.

Research interest

The aim of our laboratory is to understand how the balance between proliferation and differentiation of stem cells is maintained.

One important aspect of this is to define the role of co-activators of transcription in stem and progenitors cells during embryonic development and in adults. We are particularly interested in the function of the MYST family of histone acetyltransferases in stem cell populations. We have shown that Moz is essential for the development of haematopoietic stem cells whereas Qkf has an essential role in adult neural stem cells.

We are currently investigating the function of the MYST family, particularly Moz and Qkf, during embryonic development and in adult stem cell populations.