Satellite DNA

Once considered genomic “junk,” repetitive sequences in DNA are being discovered to have important roles in our biology. Whitehead Institute researchers are investigating different types of these repeated sequences, from repetitive DNA regions to excessive repeats within genes, in order to understand what roles they play in cells and how they contribute to health and disease.

Tomo Kumon is a postdoc in Whitehead Institute Member Yukiko Yamashita’s lab studying the function of repetitive DNA. We sat down with Tomo to learn more about him and his experiences in and out of the lab.

Researchers propose a new framework for how satellite DNA, sometimes called “genomic junk,” is essential in the organization of chromosomes in cells. They suggest this quickly-evolving DNA is one reason different species are unable to successfully interbreed.

Whitehead Institute scientists investigate germ cells — the cells that never cease to exist

The internationally renowned developmental biologist will be the inaugural incumbent of the Susan Lindquist Chair for Women in Science at Whitehead Institute.