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Dr. Geetu Tuteja

Geetu Tuteja

Position
  • Associate Professor
Department
  • Genetics, Development and Cell Biology
Tuteja Lab
Our lab is broadly interested in transcriptional regulation, which is directed in part by the binding of sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs) to enhancer regions.   Identifying cell-type specific enhancers is crucial for understanding the genetic architecture underlying development and disease. 

We combine experimental genomics, computational biology, and molecular biology to investigate the gene-enhancer networks regulating early placental development.  The placenta is a hallmark of eutherian mammals, and has recently gained attention because it is understudied despite its importance in embryonic development.  Placenta development is a step-wise process, where spatiotemporal control of gene expression must be tightly regulated to ensure proper embryonic growth.

Currently we are studying the molecular mechanisms underlying trophoblast invasion, a process that occurs in early placental development and establishes
adequate blood flow between mother and fetus.  Defects in trophoblast invasion can lead to a number of disorders, such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and placenta creta. 

We are applying next-generation sequencing technologies to identify enhancers and transcription factor binding events specific to the process of trophoblast invasion using the mouse model.  We use computational approaches to analyze and integrate our data sets, and to construct gene-enhancer networks.  Finally, we test functionality of the gene enhancer network components using mouse and human cell lines.   Ultimately, we hope that our findings will translate to early detection and prevention of common and serious placental disorders.

Contact geetu {at} iastate {dot} edu if you are interested in discussing potential rotation projects or postdoctoral positions.

Contact Info

2106 Molecular Biology Building
Ames
,
Iowa
50011-
Social Media and Websites

Education

  • Ph.D., Genomics and Computational Biology, University of Pennsylvania, 2009
  • B.A., Computer Science, Boston University, 2004