Dr. Christopher Nelson

Dr. Christopher Nelson is an Associate Professor in the School of Molecular Life Sciences. Academic credentials include a BSc and PhD from the University of British Columbia.

How DNA packaging affects cancer and disease

Research Interests

 Dr. Nelson studies how cells organize their DNA and regulate which genes are turned on or off. Within the nucleus, DNA is wrapped around histone proteins to form chromatin, a compact structure that protects the genome but can also limit access to genetic information. His laboratory investigates enzymes that modify chromatin so that genes can be accessed at the appropriate time. A particular focus is a family of enzymes known as peptidyl-proline isomerases, which can change the shape and function of proteins. His group has shown that these enzymes can modify histones and influence gene transcription. Using budding yeast and human cells, the laboratory seeks to understand how disruptions in chromatin regulation contribute to disease and whether these enzymes could become therapeutic targets.