Role of genome remodelling and replication in gene expression and therapeutic resistance

Jérôme Torisani

The level of genome compaction is controlled by numerous epigenetic modifications and chromatin remodelling proteins. Many of these are altered in pancreatic cancer cells (e.g. ARID1A/B, SMARCA4, etc.). This level of compaction largely conditions gene expression. Our research focuses on chromatin remodelling and epigenetic modifications, which impact genome organisation and gene expression during pancreatic carcinogenesis. Moreover, chromatin decondensation is an essential mechanism for the repair of DNA breaks induced by most chemo- and radio-therapies. Thus, we are studying the influence of the level of genome compaction on the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to these different therapies.

Illustration :

Compaction provoquée de la chromatine / Induced chromatin compaction