Histone acetylation is an important epigenetic mechanism in the control of gene transcription. Acetylation status of histones and key regulators of the cell cycle has recently been shown to be important in cancer development. The laboratory is interested in understanding the role of histone deacetylases in the development of colorectal cancer. Also, in collaboration with Lynk Biotechnologies, we are hoping to come up with novel, more potent and specific histone deacetylase inhibitors.