Meeting background

Epigenetic mechanisms, including the posttranslational modifications of chromatin (DNA and histones), play pivotal roles in development, cell differentiation and cell identity. Inappropriate regulation of epigenetic mechanisms has been implicated in common human diseases such as diabetes, neuropsychiatric disorders and cancers. Environmental influences such as nutrition and stress can lead to epigenetic alterations and contribute to chronic disease biology.

Since the original epigenetic mark on DNA, cytosine methylation, was discovered there has been many posttranslational marks on histone proteins shown to have a functional impact on controlling gene expression in development and disease processes. Much progress has been made in understanding the biochemistry of such modifications though there is still far to go before we understand the functional impact and combinatorial roles of the modifications within an organism. Recent advances in technology have made genome-wide of studies of modifications feasible providing rich datasets on the epigenomes of individual cell states.

This meeting will encompass our current understanding of the role of cytosine methylation, as well histone modifications and the recently identified cytosine hydoxymethylation. There will be a focus on understanding how epigenetic marks regulate development and normal physiological functions in addition to the contribution they make to disease progression. The use of new technologies to interrogate epigenetic landscapes and their potential for future discoveries will be also be highlighted.