The mobile DNA origins of gene regulation (2025-2028)

Genes are the building blocks for complex life. Millions of mobile DNA sequences compose approximately half of the mammalian genome, yet their influence on gene expression remains largely unexplored. The project proposed here will 1) develop a novel system to predict how strongly a given mobile DNA sequence will promote its own expression and that of adjacent genes, 2) test those predictions using long-read functional genomics applied to various cell types generated in vitro and 3) discover new regulatory elements underpinning development in vivo. The expected outcomes are an unprecedented understanding of gene regulation, which will benefit biotechnology applications of genetic engineering, as well as enhanced international collaboration.