Abstract
Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are enzymes that catalyze the removal of acetyl groups from the lysine residues of histones. The focuses of our research are: 1) Identify the underlying mechanisms by which HDACs repress gene transcription; 2) Determine the mechanisms by which HDAC inhibitors regulate the expression of genes involved in growth and proliferation; 3) Identify and comprehensively analyze non-histone substrates of HDACs; and 4) Clarify the role of HDACs in DNA damage repair. Abnormal HDACs are strongly correlated with many human maladies. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the biology of HDACs will provide not only tremendous insights into epigenetics and gene regulation, but also potential diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for the treatment of diseases.