Methylation Analysis and Epigenetic Biomarker Discovery

DNA Methylation Profiling in Cancer Subtypes

Interns will analyze genome-wide methylation patterns using bisulfite sequencing and array-based technologies to identify epigenetic signatures associated with different cancer subtypes. This project involves processing methylation data, performing differential methylation analysis, and validating biomarkers that distinguish between tumor classifications.

CpG Island Dynamics and Gene Silencing

Interns will investigate how aberrant methylation at CpG islands leads to transcriptional silencing of tumor suppressor genes in pathological specimens. Work includes bioinformatic analysis of methylation-expression correlations, mapping abnormal methylation patterns, and characterizing their functional consequences.

Liquid Biopsy Methylation Biomarkers for Disease Detection

Interns will develop and validate methylation-based biomarkers from circulating cell-free DNA for non-invasive disease diagnosis and prognosis monitoring. The project involves optimizing methylation detection assays, analyzing clinical samples, and establishing diagnostic thresholds for early disease detection.

Histone Modification Mapping and Chromatin Remodeling

Interns will examine histone post-translational modifications using ChIP-seq and mass spectrometry to understand chromatin accessibility and gene regulation in pathological tissues. This work includes analyzing epigenetic marks, integrating methylation data with chromatin states, and identifying key regulatory regions.

Epigenetic Clock Development for Tissue Aging and Pathology

Interns will utilize methylation signatures to develop epigenetic clocks that assess biological age and predict age-related disease susceptibility in tissue samples. The project involves statistical modeling of methylation age predictors, clinical validation, and exploring how aberrant aging signatures correlate with pathological conditions.