Dynamics of transcription factor concentration, chromatin-binding kinetics and cell-to-cell variability during zebrafish Zygotic Genome Activation

During early zebrafish development, maternally deposited mRNAs in the embryo are degraded, while the zygotic genome becomes primed for taking genetic control of development. The awakening of the zygotic genome is a temporally precise process, controlled by pioneer transcription factors at the 1024 cell stage. We are interested in understanding how the absolute amount, chromatin-binding kinetics and cell-to-cell variability of transcription factor concentration contribute to the temporal precision of Zygotic Genome Activation (ZGA). For this, we will generate fluorescently-tagged transcription factors and address their dynamic behaviour quantitatively during ZGA by Fluorescence Microscopy Imaging and Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy

This project is part of an MRC four-year PhD programme in Human Genetics, Genomics and Disease, at the MRC Human Genetics Unit, University of Edinburgh. See website for details of other projects.

Further information about the programme and details of how to apply please visit www.ed.ac.uk/mrc-human-genetics-unit/study-with-us