Functional Genomics Core

Functional Genomics aims to study the complicated interactions between genotype and phenotype at a genome-wide scale. Genome-scale gain- and loss-of-function genetic screens are important approaches to conduct such studies. ShRNA knockdown and ectopic gene expression are important techniques to carry out loss- and gain-of-function experiments for biomedical research. During the past decade, shRNA and Open Reading Frame (ORF) libraries have been demonstrated to be powerful tools of genetic screens: genome-wide shRNA libraries enable large-scale loss-of-function screens while genome scale ORF libraries allow large-scale gain-of-function screens. In the fields of cancer research, shRNA and ORF library screens are very useful for identifying oncogenes, tumor suppressors, metastasis regulators, drug resistant genes and new therapeutic targets, etc.

Recently, CRISPR/Cas9 technology became a widely used gene-editing tool to create genetic engineered animal models and gene-knockout cell lines. In addition, lentivirus-based genome-wide guide RNA libraries combined with CRISPR/Cas9 nucleases enable researchers to perform unbiased, phenotypic loss-of-function screens, which may potentially become another useful tool for loss-of-function screens, such as searching synthetic lethal partners and new therapeutic targets, etc. Based on the CRISPR/Cas9 technology, CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) and CRISPR activation (CRISPRa) were also developed to repress and to activate gene transcription respectively without permanent genome disruptions, which may potentially become useful techniques to complement current gene manipulating technologies.

Thus, in order to promote our basic research and to enhance translational research and drug discovery at the UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Functional Genomics Core (FGC, previously as ShRNA and ORFeome Core) was established to provide researchers with genetic tools for studying and annotating gene functions in cell-based assays. In addition, the FGC personnel are also available to provide research support for investigators who are interested in genetic screens.

Contact Information

Facility Location:
The UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
6565 MD Anderson Blvd, Room Z11.4015
Houston, TX 77030

FGC Contact:
Yutong Sun, Ph.D.
Co-director, Functional Genomics Core
Assistant Professor, Molecular and Cellular Oncology
ysun2@mdanderson.org
Tel: 713-792-3677
Fax: 713-794-3270