The chromosomal terminal domain, known as the telomere, plays an essential role in sustaining life and is intimately linked to cellular aging and organismal lifespan. Adjacent to the telomere lies the subtelomere, a distinct chromatin domain with structural and functional features that differ from those of the telomere. Subtelomeres contribute not only to diverse cellular processes but also to genome evolution and human disease.

Our laboratory aims to uncover how higher-order biological phenomena are regulated through chromosome ends by employing an integrative approach that combines molecular genetics, chromatin and epigenetic analyses, live-cell imaging, and next-generation sequencing using a wide range of experimental models, including human cells, great apes, and yeast. Through this work, we seek to answer a fundamental question: How have living organisms survived and evolved on Earth?