3D rendering of a nucleosome (blue). 146 base pairs of DNA wrapped around a histone (green) form the fundamental subunit of chromatin.

Unlocking the Histone
Code

At the Strahl lab, we are unraveling the fundamental mechanisms that drive chromatin biology. We aim to understand how histones, histone modifications, histone chaperones, and chromatin-remodeling enzymes precisely organize and control the genome. This regulation is essential for proper gene expression, cell growth and differentiation, development, and the ability to respond to environmental changes.

3D rendering of a nucleosome (blue). 146 base pairs of DNA wrapped around a histone (green) form the fundamental subunit of chromatin.

Unlocking the Histone
Code

At the Strahl lab, we are unraveling the fundamental mechanisms that drive chromatin biology. We aim to understand how histones, histone modifications, histone chaperones, and chromatin-remodeling enzymes precisely organize and control the genome. This regulation is essential for proper gene expression, cell growth and differentiation, development, and the ability to respond to environmental changes.

Brian Strahl and member of team looking at results on a lightbox

We are defining the mechanisms by which histones, their PTMs, and other chromatin-associated complexes contribute to human biology and disease

Histone modifications, whether acting alone or in combination, play crucial roles in gene transcription and heterochromatin formation, yet their exact contributions remain poorly understood as well as how they contribute to human disease. To tackle these unresolved questions, we employ Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) and mammalian cell models, integrating genetic, biochemical, proteomic, and genomic methodologies.

What’s New

UNC Program in Chromatin and Epigenetics
High-Throughput Peptide Core and Arraying Facility
Current Lab Opportunities

Inclusion and Mentoring Statement

The Strahl lab is located at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and in the School of Medicine. Our lab is committed to a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all. We welcome individuals from all groups and backgrounds. We are fully devoted to everyone’s success. Achieving important and productive science requires a team in which everyone participates, and everyone helps each another. We affirm that a respectful, accommodating, and hospitable environment promotes the highest quality science and training for success.