Research - Ehrenreich Genome-Phenotype Lab

Complex trait genetics

We use large budding yeast crosses and chromosomally-encoded DNA barcodes to comprehensively dissect the genetic basis of complex traits in a key eukaryotic model organism. Presently, we are focused on two traits: response to new genetic perturbations and ability to persist inside mammalian hosts.

Experimental infections of mice using a pool of barcoded, haploid segregants. The effects of loci detected in whole-genome scans using aggregate data are shown. (Mullis et. al.)

Synthetic genomics

We build whole chromosomes, which allows us to examine how multifactorial changes to chromosomes impact viability, growth, and other phenotypes. We have a diversity of synthetic genomic projects in the lab, some focused on making chassis organisms for research and biotechnology, others focused on understanding the minimum genetic requirements for eukaryotic life, and others focused on understanding the genetic bases of phenotypes within and across species and genera.

Possible restructured versions of BY ChrI were created by altering the adapters appended to each segment. Growth analysis of the natural and five non-natural chromosome structures in a rich medium containing glucose at 30ºC. (Coradini et. al.)