Epigenomics and Spatial Biology Core

PROJECT SUMMARY: EPIGENOMICS AND SPATIAL BIOLOGY CORE Acting at the interface between environmental inputs mediated by cellular signaling pathways and the inherited genetic information, epigenetic mechanisms underpin cellular phenotypes and function through the control of mRNA expression, splicing, and levels. Complementing recent advances that made epigenome-transcriptome- proteome integration in dissociated single cells possible, spatial transcriptomics and proteomics enable studying the functional readouts of epigenetic regulation in the context of native tissue architecture including at the single-cell level. Thus, epigenomic analysis paired with spatial biology mapping greatly enhances our ability to elucidate the contributions of molecular signaling pathways and environmental factors. The C-SiG Epigenomics and Spatial Biology Core provides C-SiG members with integrated access to epigenomics and spatial biology expertise and a powerful and robust set of technologies and services to support innovative digestive disease-related cell signaling research. The Core implements current, emerging, and future gene epigenomics and spatial biology technologies, develops them into highly reproducible, rigorous core service, and helps center members to properly assess, keep abreast of, and apply these scientific advances. The core provides essential expertise and dedicated personnel to advise and execute cutting-edge technologies for C-SiG members in pursuit of the Specific Aims described below. While the newly added spatial biology services have been independently developed by the C-SiG Epigenomics and Spatial Biology Core, the epigenomics services leverage the Mayo Center for Individualized Medicine (CIM) Epigenomics Program Development Laboratory to provide access for a broader segment of the C-SiG membership to state-of-the-art epigenomic methods at a discounted price, through C-SiG supported technologist effort (1.0 FTE). The core is led by Core Director, Dr. Tamas Ordog, who has >25 years of research experience focused on digestive disease-related transcriptional, epigenetic, and metabolic regulation. In 2011, he founded the CIM Epigenomics Program and its laboratory, which develops, implements, and validates epigenomic technology and offers these methods to investigators across the Mayo Clinic Enterprise. Accordingly, we have defined and will pursue the following Specific Aims: i) Deliver state-of-the-art epigenomics and spatial biology assays that are needed by C-SiG members, including bulk and single-cell analyses and digital spatial profiling assays; iii) Accelerate research by connecting members to epigenomics and spatial biology-related consultation and educational opportunities such as seminars, journal clubs, and conferences; iii) Develop and implement cutting-edge epigenomics and spatial biology assays including single- cell and subcellular spatial assays. The C-SiG Epigenomics and Spatial Biology Core services have been used by 54% of current Center members and supported 32 publications during the past funding cycle.