The Blelloch lab’s main interests are in the transcriptional/epigenetic regulation of cell fate in early mammalian development spanning from the oocyte to early gastrulation. These interests include the role of transcription factors, chromatin regulators, and microRNAs. The lab more recently developed an additional focus on the molecular control of antitumor immunity, including the role of exosomes.
When starting the lab in 2006, we largely focused on the role of post-transcriptional regulators, including microRNAs (miRNAs) and RNA binding proteins (RBPs). However, in the past five years, we have also focused on epigenetic mechanisms associated with enhancer control. In addition, we have developed a strong interest in exosomes both as biomarkers and regulators of cancer progression.