Control of globin gene expression. We are studying the cis and trans acting factors that regulate the high level of expression of the globin genes in erythroid cells. Several transacting factors were studied by gene knockout experiments. This is apparently due to the failure of the fetal liver to support hematopoiesis. In addition, some members of this family are transcription factors for antioxidant genes.
Knockout mice succumb to various oxidative stress.
Creation of a mouse model of sickle cell anemia . Gene transfer experiment. Viral vectors, including AAV and lentiviral vectors are used to transfer genes into the hematopoietic cell. In addition, genes of angiogenic factors are delivered by AAV to mouse hearts to study their effects on coronary heart disease. NRF2, a member of the NFE2 family of transcription factors, is not essential for murine erythropoiesis, growth, and development.