Transcription regulation by RNA polymerase II is a fundamental process that is guided by tissue-specific transcription factors. These factors play a critical role in proliferation, cell identity, and function, and their dysregulation contributes to oncogenesis and drug resistance. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate the recruitment of protein complexes to the transcription machinery is therefore essential for deciphering the fundamental processes underlying these pathological conditions.

Post-translational modifications of chromatin, including arginine citrullination, are crucial components of gene regulation mechanisms. Arginine citrullination is the conversion of arginine to the non-coded amino acid citrulline, catalyzed by a family of enzymes called peptidyl arginine deiminases (PADIs). We are deciphering the molecular mechanisms by which PADIs-mediated citrullination coordinates with transcriptional events at multiple levels and dictates transcriptional plasticity and immune regulation in cancer.

Given our expertise in the field of arginine citrullination and transcription regulation, we are intrigued to elucidate how arginine citrullination implicates the distinct stages of transcriptional events in cancer. Using advanced multidisciplinary approaches inclusive of single-cell omics, microscopy, proteomics, and the CRISPR-Cas9 method along with structural knowledge, we aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying this process. In combination, we are using functional approaches to translate this fundamental knowledge to provide better therapeutic strategies for cancer patients.