Phenotypic heterogeneity in isogenic cell populations mechanisms and consequences

The Strength of Diversity

Differences between cells that share the same genes occur as a consequence of random molecular events. Diversification can improve adaptation to the environment but can also impact cell function and lifespan if the changes are inappropriate.
My research focuses on understanding the sources of stochasticity of gene expression in higher eucaryotic cells; experimentally modulating the level of stochasticity in gene expression in these cells; investigating the impact of this modulation on the process of cell differentiation and the senescence of the population.