Research project Roles of snoRNAs in chromatin organization, gene expression and DNA repair

Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play essential functions in all living organisms. Among the many ncRNA classes, small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are interesting for several reasons: they are abundant and conserved, and many of them are heavily enriched in chromatin, which suggests that they contribute to chromatin regulation. However, their functions are poorly understood. The aim of the project is to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which snoRNAs regulate chromatin accessibility, gene expression and DNA repair. We also study the physiological significance of such regulation and we hope to provide insight into the etiology of genetic diseases that are linked to defects in snoRNA function.