The human genome contains around 20,000 genes with two copies per gene, one inherited from each parent. Changes in the genome including gene breaks, rearrangements, and extra gene copies are frequent in many diseases, most commonly in cancer. DNA breaks occur often throughout the genome,... click to read more

Expression of a correct set of genes at the right time is crucial for cells to maintain their cell-type specific function. Epigenetic cell memory supports maintenance of such gene expression programs, with specific chromatin states regulating which genes to express or to keep silent. Chromatin... click to read more

Global yields of major food crops, such as rice and wheat, are estimated to be reduced by one fifth due to damage from pests and diseases. Chemical pesticides are currently the primary control strategy in agriculture. Unfortunately, these chemicals can be harmful to human health... click to read more

Human evolution is like a tightrope walker with viruses – in a delicate balance. Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), once part of ancient retroviral infections, are now permanently fixed in our genome. Most of them, including human ERVs (HERVs), like landmines buried in the past, accumulate mutations... click to read more

The brain is a specialized organ that interprets information about the surroundings and translates it into behavior, allowing animals to cope with their dynamic environments. Ever since antiquity, thinkers (and helpless parents) have suggested that the activity of one's brain could somehow impact the fate... click to read more