Yuan He, PhD
Professor, Molecular Biosciences; Judd A. and Marjorie Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences
Research Program
Cancer-Focused Research
My research program focuses on the molecular mechanisms by which large, multi-subunit complexes engage in DNA-centric processes. We are currently focusing on two major topics: (1) how gene transcription is regulated at two key steps including the assembly of the initiation complex at the core promoter and RNA polymerase II (Pol II) pausing at promoter proximal region after leaving the promoter (2) how various types of DNA damage are repaired and why deficiencies in these repair pathways lead to pathology of cancer predisposition or accelerated aging.