Understanding the biology of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells is extremely important: They can give rise to any cell type in the body and therefore hold promise for regenerative-medicine efforts to repair or restore diseased tissues and organs.

In recent research, Meelad Dawlaty, Ph.D., found that ESC formation during embryonic development requires DNA demethylation (the removal of methyl groups from DNA)—a process driven by the Tet family of enzymes. The National Institutes of Health has now awarded Dr. Dawlaty a five-year, $2.3 million grant to study the role of Tet enzymes and their various enzymatic functions in regulating ESC gene expression and transformation into mature cells. Since Tet enzymes are mutated or dysregulated in a number of disorders including Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and several types of cancer, insights into Tet enzymes could also lead to strategies for treating or preventing these health problems.

Dr. Dawlaty is an associate professor of genetics and of developmental & molecular biology, member of the Ruth L. and David S. Gottesman Institute for Stem Cell Research and Regenerative Medicine at Einstein and a member of the National Cancer Institute–designated Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center. (1R35GM156415-01)