Research interests
Transcription of DNA into RNA lies at the heart of gene expression. This process is performed by RNA polymerase (RNAP), a molecular motor that reads the DNA template base by base and synthesizes an RNA molecule. I am following RNAPs from the formation of clusters, initiation of transcription, to active elongation, on a single molecule level. Using single molecule, super resolution imaging techniques, I am tracking RNAP molecules inside living cells, to uncover the dynamic biophysical properties of transcription, with a focus on the mechanics of elongation in vivo. In addition, I will be advancing the application of single molecule imaging and tracking with nanometer precision in living cells.