#Poon Lab Python General code storage for work in Dr. Gregory Poon's lab ion the biophysics department of Georgia State University.
##Molecular Biophysics of DNA Recognition Transcription is the process by which genetic information encoded in the DNA is copied as messenger RNA (mRNA). Proteins that are eventually synthesized by the ribosome require this mRNA as templates. The intricate business of executing and regulating transcription is carried out by a large suite of DNA-binding proteins. Our group is interested in the principles that govern the interactions between transcription factors, a major functional class of DNA-binding proteins that direct transcriptional initiation, and DNA. Our studies are focused on the role of conformational dynamics and molecular hydration on DNA recognition and self-regulation by the transcription factors. A major thrust of our effects is aimed at understanding how these interactions occur in the cellular environment, which is crowded with biological polymers and metabolites. Such an environment has the tendency of realizing weak interactions and being highly sensitive to the behavior of water molecules. Our studies are aimed at understanding the physicochemical bases of these actions and establishing their biological effects in live cells.
##Transcription Factor Pharmacology Molecular definition of DNA binding by transcription factors also helps reveal novel routes to targeting specific members within transcription factor families, for which strong structural homology has frustrated their translational potential as drug targets. A strategic extension of our interest in transcription factor biophysics is the development of chemical control of specific transcription factors in vivo. Factor-specific reagents represent much-needed additions to the chemical biology toolbox with respect to targeted transcriptional control and have strong potential to impact multiple areas of bioengineering and therapeutics. A particular target of interest is PU.1, a member of the ETS family and a key regulator of hematopoiesis. PU.1-specific compounds are attractive drug discovery leads in a growing list of diseases characterized by de-regulated PU.1 activity. We are currently engaged in collaborative preclinical studies to evaluate the effect of targeting PU.1 in model systems such as acute myeloid leukemia. In addition to pharmacology, we also work collaboratively on the medicinal chemistry of DNA-targeting drugs, with a particular interest in how the physicochemical properties of these compounds impact their cellular uptake and trafficking in cells.