Research summary
A fundamental question in biology is how the information that is encoded in the genome is accurately interpreted to create the vast diversity of neurons that mammals’ brains need for higher cognitive function. To ensure correct gene expression and properly determine what cells’ future identities should be during neurogenesis (the creation of new neurons), the genome needs to be coordinated at multiple levels and integrate intrinsic and environmental signals.
As Canada Research Chair in Regulatory Genomics, Dr. Guang Yang is investigating how this happens, with a focus on the translational regulation of the genome. He and his research team are working to define the translational landscape of genome regulation in neurogenesis and dissect the molecular mechanisms that underlie it.