Our lab focuses on the fundamental mechanisms of chromatin reprogramming during cell state transitions, particularly the reversible G0 state known as quiescence. This vital, widespread cellular state enables long-term survival by halting cell division and maintaining cellular stasis. Cells can re-enter the cell cycle with signals such as nutrients or growth factors. A key goal of the lab is to understand how chromatin becomes accessible to RNA polymerases and DNA-binding factors during quiescence exit, which is a hallmark of quiescence reversibility. To achieve this, we study diverse epigenomic changes during quiescence entry and exit using distinct model systems: baker’s yeast and mammalian adult neural stem cells (NSCs). By purifying quiescence-specific protein complexes from yeast, we can uncover how cells regulate and repurpose epigenetic factors for chromatin reprogramming. This has led to the identification of quiescence-specific chromatin remodeling subcomplexes that we are actively investigating. In parallel, we focus on the maintenance and activation of adult quiescent neural stem/progenitor cells, which is crucial in aging, cancer, and brain injury response. Our primary objective is to identify chromatin regulatory mechanisms involved in NSC activation. Our multidisciplinary approach includes genomics, biochemistry, cell biology, and genetics, using techniques like CRISPR screening. By ad