Hargreaves Lab

The Hargreaves lab is interested in epigenetic regulation mediated by BAF chromatin remodeling complexes. Chromatin remodeling complexes create DNA accessibility through hydrolysis of ATP to allow binding of transcription and repair factors to DNA. These large multi-subunit complexes are broadly required for cellular differentiation and mutated in >20% of human cancers. But how BAF complexes instruct cell fate through complex targeting, engagement of transcription factors, and regulation of gene expression is not fully understood. Our goal is to use biochemical and epigenomic assays to understand BAF complex regulation of immune cell activation in disease. We also have a strong interest in understanding how cancer-associated mutations in BAF complex subunits impact therapeutic responses, particularly to immunotherapy. Our work has converged on the potential use of BAF complex inhibitors for cancer therapy and therapeutic control of inflammation.