Romeo Blanc
Position title: Assistant Professor
Email: rblanc@wisc.edu
Address:
Cell and Regenerative Biology
Aging, Epigenetics, Stem Cell Biology, Inflammation, Regeneration
- Lab Website
- https://blanclab.wiscweb.wisc.edu/
Research Description:
Our research aims to elucidate the intricate mechanisms driving stem cell aging and devise strategies to enhance regenerative function. A primary focus is on muscle stem cells (MuSCs) and their epigenetic regulation, particularly H4K20 methylation, to counteract age-related decline. We investigate how aerobic exercise can influence this epigenetic landscape, rejuvenating aged stem cells and improving their regenerative capacity. We also explore the systemic interactions between bone marrow and muscle in the context of aging. Our studies reveal how systemic inflammatory signals contribute to long-term epigenetic remodeling in MuSCs, affecting their fate and function. By understanding these cross-tissue interactions, we aim to develop interventions that mitigate systemic aging effects and promote overall tissue health. Another aspect of our work involves examining the role of iron metabolism and ferroptosis in aging. We study how abnormal iron accumulation and reduced antioxidant defenses lead to ferroptosis, contributing to stem cell dysfunction and age-related pathologies. Our research seeks to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of iron-induced damage in neuromuscular degeneration, with the goal of identifying novel targets to prevent neuromuscular decline in aging populations. Through a multidisciplinary approach, our lab integrates epigenetics, cellular signaling, and metabolic studies to develop innovative strategies for enhancing stem cell function and promoting healthy aging.
Representative Publications:
Blanc, R. S. et al. Epigenetic erosion of H4K20me1 induced by inflammation drives aged stem cell ferroptosis. Pre-Print (2024). https://doi.org:10.21203/rs.3.rs-3937628/v1
Blanc, R. S. et al. Inhibition of inflammatory CCR2 signaling promotes aged muscle regeneration and strength recovery after injury. Nat Commun 11, 4167 (2020). https://doi.org:10.1038/s41467-020-17620-8
Blanc, R. S. & Richard, S. Arginine Methylation: The Coming of Age. Mol Cell 65, 8-24 (2017). https://doi.org:10.1016/j.molcel.2016.11.003