Single Cell View 3D Genome Architecture

The 3-dimensional (3D) folding of the genome sequence inside the eukaryotic nucleus is tightly linked to cell function and identity. For that reason, deciphering the rules that govern 3D genome architecture is currently an important challenge facing biology. Determining genome architecture at the level of looping DNA-to-DNA interactions and/or phase separated compartments will allow us to better investigate structure-function relationships. The potential benefits to both basic research and medicine are extensive as genome organisation is known to play important roles in various biological settings, such as those involving cellular differentiation during development and disease states like cancer.

The last few years has seen the development of a variety of new techniques that when combined with computational analysis/modelling is beginning to allow us to better scrutinise the importance of 3D genome structure and function in its native single-cell state. In parallel studies, single-cell analysis is now commonly used to measure gene transcription and epigenomic marks, like DNA methylation. An interesting outcome of these studies has been the level by which genome structure, transcription and epigenomic marks vary from cell to cell. An important area of investigation now is to try to understand to what level this variation is important in regulating biological function.

This Workshop will bring together a wide range of scientists with expertise in 3D genome architecture, single-cell biology, microscopy, biophysics and computational biology. The main purpose will be to discuss how molecular processes studied at a single-cell and single-molecule level can help our understanding of how genome folding affects biological function. Examples such as those involving promoter and enhancer loop contact during transcription, chromatin complex formation at silent and active genome regions and liquid-liquid phase separation will be discussed. Together we will identify key priorities the field needs to address to better realise the full potential of probing 3D nuclear architecture at the single-cell level.

By inviting scientists from a wide range of disciplines we believe this timely and exciting Workshop will foster new opportunities for research in this important area of biology.