RESEARCH PROJECTS

Ribosome Modifications in Hematopoietic Development

Since its discovery in the 1950s, the ribosome has been considered as a static machinery. However rising evidence suggest that ribosomes are a heterogenic pool of complexes, with diverse translation capacities. We study ribosome heterogeneity as a mechanism for cell-type-specific translation, essential for establishing cellular identity. We focus on rRNA modifications heterogeneity and use molecular techniques, genetic mouse models and in-vivo methods to dissect ribosome composition and ribosomal function across the hematopoietic hierarchy.

The Malignant and Pre-malignant Ribosome

Ribosomopathies are human syndromes cause by mutations to the ribosome. The main cause of mortality of ribosomopathies patients is bone marrow failure (when the bone marrow fails to properly generate blood cells), and they present with increased susceptibility to develop blood malignancies such as acute myeloid leukemia. We aim to understand the mechanisms by which dysregulation of the ribosome leads to pre-malignant conditions and ultimately to leukemia development.

Ribosomal Hijacking by Viruses

Pathogens, such as viruses, utilize the host’s ribosome to their own advantage to facilitate viral replication and disease manifestation. We explore the tactics employed by viruses to shape the cellular ribosome to fit their specific needs. By these studies we aim to better understand viral infection, as well as use viruses as guides to uncover essential elements to ribosome function.