Embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells hold great promise for regenerative medicine. Gene expression in stem cells is influenced by epigenetic marks including methyl groups that are added to or removed from DNA. A class of proteins called Tet enzymes aid in removing methyl groups from DNA, thereby activating specific genes in stem cells. Aberrant Tet-mediated regulation of gene activity can lead to abnormal stem cell function and development and lead to diseases such as cancer. Meelad Dawlaty, Ph.D., has received a 5-year, $1.75 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to investigate how Tet proteins regulate embryonic stem cells. Findings from these studies will improve basic understanding of stem cell biology and could help identify new targets for treating diseases. Dr. Dawlaty is an assistant professor of genetics and member of the Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research at Einstein. (1R01GM122839)