Anna Tyler, Ph.D.

Research Scientist

Models gene interactions (epistasis) in model organisms and humans.

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About Anna Tyler, Ph.D.

I am interested in understanding how interactions between genes (epistasis) contribute to the genetic architecture of complex traits. My adviser, Greg Carter, previously developed an analytical method, called the Combined Analysis of Pleiotropy and Epistasis (CAPE), that combines information across multiple phenotypes to constrain possible epistatic models and thereby infer the direction of interaction between genetic variants. I have packaged the analytical pipeline into a freely available R package. CAPE has been used to infer directed epistatic networks in yeast, Drosophila, and mice, and I am currently working to adapt the method for use in human populations. This adaptation will include development of a new software package for detection and interpretation of epistatic interactions in medical genetics.

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Research HighlightMarch 12, 2019
A closer look at structural variants in the genome
A recent Cell paper uses long-read DNA sequencing and other advanced genomics tools and methods to shed light on genomic structural variants.
Research HighlightMarch 08, 2019
Long-range connectivity and gene regulation networks
A complicated three-dimensional network involving proteins and specific DNA sequences helps regulate the expression of genes. New work led by JAX’s Chia-Lin Wei shows how one protein, SOX2, plays a significant role in neural stem cells, affecting many aspects of development and function.
Search MagazineMarch 06, 2019
Finding a better way to fight childhood cancers
Ching Lau is working to find effective therapies and test them against patients’ own tumors in specially made patient derived xenotype (PDX) mice.
Research HighlightFebruary 28, 2019
Two proteins essential for layered sterocilia elongation in the inner-ear
A research team led by Basile Tarchini has found two new proteins that are essential to the correct elongation of stereocilia, tiny hair-like cellular protrusions in the inner ear.

Press ReleaseMarch 11, 2019
Exploring the hypothalamus one neuron at a time
A collaborative team from UConn and The Jackson Laboratory have characterized neuron diversity in the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA), a critical coordinator of fundamental behaviors in the brain. The results provide important clues for understanding LHA neural circuits and the potential development of targeted neuropsychiatric therapies.
- Neuroscience
- Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases
Research HighlightMarch 08, 2019
Breaking up is hard to do
New research shows that proteins work together to enable DNA double-strand breaks during meiosis.
- Reproductive Biology
- Genetics and Genomics
Press ReleaseMarch 05, 2019
3D genomics one nucleus at a time
Supported by a recent four-year, $2.3M grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Wei is looking to develop a method for chromatin interaction analysis in single nuclei, with single-molecule resolution.
- Genetic Tools
- Genetics and Genomics
Press ReleaseFebruary 18, 2019
A crystal ball for looking at the complexity of the 3D genome
A team led by Jackson Laboratory Professor Yijun Ruan, Ph.D., has developed a new method, called ChIA-Drop, that allows researchers to investigate 3D genomic structures with unprecedented precision and clarity.