• Ph.D., State University of New York, 1982
• M.S., State University of New York, 1979
• B.S., State University of New York, 1977

Research Interests: Acquired immune responses require the precise regulation of immune system genes. Overlying simple gene regulatory mechanisms is the local chromatin architecture that controls the accessibility of a gene to specific transcription factors. Our lab investigates the role of chromatin in the regulation of genes in the immune system. In our model systems, we seek to elucidate the events that control major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II) genes and genes regulated by tumor necrosis factor (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and manganous superoxide dismutase). We employ animal, cellular, and molecular approaches in our studies. Key questions include understanding how transcription factors: 1) assemble on DNA in vivo, 2) modify chromatin structure, and 3) interact over long distances to activate gene expression. We are also investigating the roles that transcriptional repressors play in the differentiation of immune cells, specifically at the B cell to plasma cell. In addition to biochemical and molecular assays, mice containing deleted regulatory elements are being created to develop in vivo model systems to interrogate gene assembly and chromatin modification questions. Through this type of analysis we hope to develop higher order models of gene regulation through which specific factors may be targeted for immune based therapies used in infectious disease, autoimmunity, and vaccination.

Website: http://www.microbiology.emory.edu/bosslab