Epigenetic mechanisms underlying metabolic-inflammatory diseases - Eckardt Treuter

Epigenetic alterations that trigger changes in epigenome activity and gene expression are associated with the development of these diseases. However, the underlying regulatory mechanisms, the critical components involved, and the causal relationship of these associations are currently poorly defined. We address these issues with an emphasis on coregulators, proteins that modify chromatin and cooperate with transcription factors.

Activation of monocytes by pathological factors (i.e. obesity, hypercholesterolemia and hyperglycemia) serves as the key mechanism to promote the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). In collaboration with the clinical researchers we are trying to understand how an excess of lipids in the circulation alters the monocyte epigenome, particularly at enhancer regions, and modulates their metabolic activation, memory and atherogenic properties.

Here you can find some of our selected publications.