Epigenetics

The chromosomal organization of genomes reflects the needs for both compaction, due to space constraints, and accessibility to allow proper processing of genetic information when required. Active and inactive states of genomic regions are achieved thanks to a combination of physical (e.g. the mechanical properties of DNA) and epigenetic (e.g. as in X-chromosome inactivation in humans) determinants. Therefore, both physical and biological approaches are required to fully understand this organization.

The biological approaches include for instance the High-C approaches to determine the relation between DNA sequence, local chromosome folding and epigenetic states resulting from DNA methylation, histone modification, and chromatin compaction, which affect gene expression. The physical approaches include experimental tools which allow one to probe the mechanical states of the chromosome, for instance by directly pulling on chromosomes (inside the nucleus or extracted from the nucleus) or by observing their flexibility and crowding, and draw on theoretical concepts that emerge from the field of polymer physics. Combined, these approaches promise to help us crack the chromosome code which relates the 3D organization of the genome in the nucleus to its function throughout all stages of the cell cycle.

This year, Institut Curie's International Course on Epigenetics has joined forces with Qlife Winter School, offering an extended program organized in partnership with Ecole Normal Supérieur - Département  de Biologie. As such, there are 2 modalities of inscription :

• 18th Course on Epigenetics ( March 22-29, "theoretical course" including technological platform visits) targets Master and PhD candidates. Registration free of charge;
• Extended program with QLife Winter School series on Quantitative Biology including digital workshops (March 22-31) targets Master & PhD candidates as well as more advanced profiles. With registration Fee.

Check all the information about the program and how to register below. Candidatures are selected by the course's scientific committee.

This course is sponsored by Labex DEEP.