CHAI LABORATORY

Research at the Chai lab focuses on cell fate decisions and its therapeutic applications. The fate of a cell is governed by genetic and epigenetic systems which can be redirected or reprogrammed through modifications of key factors. Identifying and understanding these factors allow us to create a cell type-specific gene expression profile (transcriptome), which significantly advances our knowledge of cellular identity and function. Specifically, we are interested in how stem cells maintain their self-renewal and differentiation abilities, how normal cells transform into cancer cells, and the differential role(s) of genes/pathways in cancer versus normal tissues. Join us in finding cures for developmental defects, cancer, hemoglobinopathies (e.g. sickle cell disease and thalassemias), and hemolytic disease of the newborns.