Our research
Our research aims to dissect mechanisms of epigenetic dysregulation in poor-prognosis childhood cancers, and to develop targeted therapies aimed at the epigenome. We apply novel tools to understand the epigenetic underpinnings of heterogeneity/plasticity. Epigenetic variability is a driving force in tumor evolution and resistance. By mapping the dynamic epigenetic landscape using methods that capture epigenetic variation, we identify non-mutated, epigenetically altered drivers of cancer which point to novel therapeutic vulnerabilites. We are applying these methods to epigenetically-driven, aggressive pediatric brain tumors including diffuse midline glioma (DMG/DIPG) and ATRT. More broadly, we are also interested in epigenetic plasticity in pluripotency/cell fate transitions, immune cell function, and aging.
Learn More
Lab News
- Recent Publications (PubMed)
- See lab updates on our Instagram and Twitter
- We were awarded the Hyundai Hope Scholar grant! (September 2023)
- Ashley presented her work on DIPG at the SNO Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Research Conference, June 22-24, 2023
- Pediatric oncology fellow Dr. Megan Zinsky has joined the lab, co-mentored by Dr. Challice Bonifant
The team
- Our team includes postdoctoral clinical and research fellows, graduate students, research scientists, and undergraduate researchers from diverse scientific and cultural backgrounds.
- Our lab is part of the Center for Epigenetics at Johns Hopkins, an environment that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among trainees and provides unparalleled resources for epigenomics research.
- We are part of the Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences graduate program.
Join Us
- The lab is located in the Rangos building of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine's main campus (East Baltimore).
- We are always looking for talented scientists to join the group!
- Email: mak (at) jhmi . edu
