Center for Genomic Regulation

Abstract – Overview Proper regulation of genomic structure and function is central to life and health. Dysfunction of cell division, chromatin structure, and gene expression are common features and causes of human disease. As such, understanding genomic regulation is central to elucidating disease processes and developing new interventions. Technological and analytical advances are rapidly changing the research landscape in genomics, epigenomics, and transcriptomics. While a core of genomics-related research has developed at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF), additional investigators and research resources are needed to bring genomic regulation research at OMRF, and in Oklahoma more broadly, to the point of being a self-sustaining community that is competitive in the field. While efforts are currently scattered across institutions and disease-focused research efforts, the Center for Genomic Regulation (CGR) will be a nexus for the state of Oklahoma. The goal of the CGR is to build a focused research community that performs collaborative research and effective training. We define genomic regulation as studies examining chromatin, DNA modifications, genome structure, and transcription. The CGR will support four accomplished Early Stage Investigator (ESI) Assistant Professor- level faculty at OMRF as Research Project Leaders (RPLs). These RPLs have stellar training records and high potential for successful and independent genomic regulation-related research careers. With the strategic emphasis on genomics at OMRF and genomic regulation research represented across research programs at OMRF, a steady pool of future RPLs is assured. The CGR will provide mentorship and research resources for these early career investigators and support the development of their independent careers to R01 or R01- equivalent funding. The CGR will be a hub for advanced research across organ and disease domains, integrating genomic analysis technologies and data science capabilities. These goals will be accomplished through the following Specific Aims: Aim 1: Support promising Research Project Leaders to scientific independence. Aim 2. Promote novel genomic regulation research through mentoring the Research Project Leaders. Aim 3: Integrate existing and new resources through the Epigenomics and Artificial Intelligence Cores to support genomic regulation research. Aim 4: Promote an environment that supports the success and development of an independent and sustainable center in genomic regulation.