Danny Reinberg studies the dynamic processes that shape chromatin structure and direct transcriptional outcome. Chromatin serves as a carrier of epigenetic information by molding the genome into transcriptionally active or repressed inheritable domains. Reinberg and his team are focused on investigating the process of chromatin compartmentalization and its role in gene regulation from embryonic stem cells to cells of a defined lineage. In addition, they are gaining a greater understanding of epigenetics in the context of a whole organism through their extensive studies of the eusocial insect, the ant.
After creating mutant Indian jumping ants with no sense of smell, HHMI Investigator Danny Reinberg and colleagues saw profound abnormalities in the ants’ behavior and brains. The results show that the sense of smell is fundamental to maintaining colony harmony. HHMI scientists are among 84 newly elected members. Six HHMI scientists have been elected to membership in the Institute of Medicine. Nine HHMI investigators and one HHMI Professor are elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. HHMI announces the names of scientists selected to pilot a new program devoted to supporting transformative, collaborative research.