Congratulations to Franck MARTIN on the acceptance of his thesis!

Summary of His Research Work:
Chromatin is a dynamic structure regulated by various epigenetic mechanisms, including ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling complexes such as SWI/SNF. These complexes are so critical that mutations in chromatin remodeling proteins are strongly associated with several diseases, including cancer. For example, BCL7 proteins, newly identified core subunits of the mammalian SWI/SNF complex, are linked to various cancer types, including Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). Information on BCL7 proteins remains very limited. Using biochemical and structural approaches, this project aims to better understand the structure and function of these auxiliary subunits.
We report here that these proteins bind to the nucleosome’s acidic patch via their N-terminal region, which contains an arginine anchor motif, and that mutation of one of these arginines directly impairs nucleosome binding. We also propose a model for the positioning of BCL7 within the SWI/SNF complex, suggesting it interacts with the ARP module, specifically with ACTB via a 2W motif, and that it also directly binds to BAF47. Furthermore, we found that once on the nucleosome, BAF47 occupies the acidic patch and the BCL7A helix is displaced.
 

Skills Acquired at IGBMC:
During my PhD, I developed expertise in structural biology, particularly in X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). I learned to master the entire workflow—from protein production and purification to solving their atomic structure.
I also acquired essential skills in scientific methodology, critical analysis, and project management, enabling me to conduct research in a rigorous and organized manner. This experience also taught me the importance of knowledge sharing, whether through collaborations, presentations, or publications, thereby enhancing my ability to communicate complex ideas. Finally, I adopted a mindset of continuous curiosity and self-questioning, always pushing myself to dig deeper, refine my analyses, and explore new avenues to enrich my field of study.
 

Life at IGBMC:
What I particularly appreciated at IGBMC is the availability of all the technological platforms, offering access to a wide range of complementary techniques. This diversity allows for an integrated research approach, with nearly everything available on-site—from sample production to structural and functional analysis.
Moreover, the working environment is highly conducive to learning: platform experts take the time to explain, guide, and train researchers, fostering a progressive skills development and greater autonomy in using various technologies. This spirit of knowledge transfer and collaboration greatly enriches the research experience and encourages the development of new competencies.
 

Collaborations:
Due to the complexity of my project, a multidisciplinary approach was essential to explore all its dimensions. To carry out the various experiments, we collaborated with several teams with complementary expertise, allowing us to integrate diverse approaches and enrich our analysis.
Some experiments were conducted in collaboration with teams in Heidelberg and Paris, highlighting the importance of scientific exchange and networking to overcome technical and methodological challenges. This experience helped me appreciate the value of collaborative work and strengthened my skills in project management and coordination across teams.
 

Funding and Partnerships:
My first three years of doctoral studies were funded directly by Elisa Bergamin’s ATIP-Avenir program. the ARC Foundation funded my fourth year.
 

Future Projects:
Looking ahead, I’m considering two main paths to continue my career. On the one hand, I’d like to explore the private sector by joining a company to experience an applied research environment and see how science is translated into an industrial context. On the other hand, I am also interested in pursuing a postdoctoral fellowship with another team abroad. This experience would allow me to discover new approaches to research, acquire new skills, and expand my scientific network internationally.
Whichever path I choose, my goal is to broaden my horizons and explore different approaches to science.