Sathyan Kizhakke Mattada, PhD

Our Research Focus

Our lab investigates the fundamental principles of chromosomal segregation, organization, epigenetics, and transcription, exploring how they interact to regulate tissue homeostasis. We study how disruptions in these processes contribute to disease, particularly cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Centromeres and Chromosome Stability in Cancer

Accurate chromosome segregation during cell division is essential for maintaining genomic integrity. Centromeres play a critical role in ensuring high-fidelity segregation during mitosis. Errors in this process can lead to aneuploidy, a hallmark of many cancers. Centromeres are epigenetically marked by the histone variant CENP-A, which establishes their identity and directs the assembly of the kinetochore—the protein complex that attaches chromosomes to the mitotic spindle. While significant progress has been made, the intricate mechanisms governing centromere establishment, maintenance, and kinetochore function remain poorly understood. Our lab aims to uncover these principles to enhance our understanding of genomic stability and identify potential therapeutic targets for cancer. Tumors often missegregate chromosomes at an abnormally high rate, leading to chromosomal instability (CIN)—a defining feature of many aggressive cancers. Our research will explore the mechanisms driving CIN and how these errors fuel cancer progression. Additionally, we aim to apply our findings to synthetic chromosome design, providing insights into engineered genomic systems.

Epigenetic Regulation in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

External signaling pathways influence chromatin by depositing covalent histone modifications, which serve as a code for recruiting effector proteins. These proteins translate epigenetic signals into transcriptional activation or repression, shaping neurodevelopment. Mutations in epigenetic regulators are frequently linked to ASD, yet the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Using a combination of genomic, proteomic, biochemical, cell biology, and organismal approaches, our lab investigates how epigenetic disruptions contribute to ASD pathogenesis and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Advancing Genomic & Proteomic Technologies

Innovative technologies are critical for advancing our understanding of epigenetic inheritance and genome regulation. Our lab is dedicated to developing cutting-edge proteomic and genomic tools to refine our ability to study cellular function and disease mechanisms. Through these advancements, we aim to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for various human diseases.

Contact
Phone: 217-545-8049
Email: skizhakkemattada68@siumed.edu