Welcome to Liu Lab @University of Virginia

What do we study

Epigenetic changes accompany an individual’s development, aging, and disease. They’re particularly significant markers for cancer’s onset and progression, posing substantial therapeutic challenges. Increasing evidence suggests that DNA replication stress leads to these epigenetic alterations. Epigenetic changes at the replication fork can impact its repair and genome stability. Our goal is to understand the relationship between DNA replication stress responses and epigenetic changes, shedding light on tumor mechanisms and reasons for drug resistance.

What’s our approach

Building upon traditional biochemical techniques, we employ various proteomic methods for DNA replication forks combined with single-molecule immunofluorescence to study the replication fork. We utilize high-throughput sequencing to investigate epigenetics at the replication fork. The CRISPR-Cas9 system, alongside rapid protein degradation techniques (AID2), is used to manipulate target proteins.

Why join Liu lab

We are a vibrant team that thrives on collaboration and mutual respect. We welcome you to join us in celebrating the joys of science