Donald Ruhl

Donald Ruhl is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Oklahoma State University since 2010. His research focuses on chromatin structure, epigenetic regulation, and their links to cancer biology through the Swi/Snf chromatin remodeling complex and ATP-dependent remodeling mechanisms.

• PhD in Pharmacology and Physiology from Saint Louis University (2005)
• Postdoctoral Fellow at Cornell University

Research interests include understanding how chromatin remodeling complexes like Swi/Snf and PARP-1 regulate nucleosome positioning and gene expression. Key areas are:

• Epigenetic dysregulation in oncogenesis
• Estrogen receptor-mediated transcription
• Stress-induced chromatin structural changes
• Small nucleolar RNA assembly mechanisms
• Transcriptional coactivator complexes (SRCAP)
• Therapeutic targeting of chromatin aberrations

Recent publications highlight interdisciplinary work spanning plant epigenetics (2024), PARP-1 enzymology (2007-2012), and chromatin remodeling mechanisms (2005-2010). Articles often integrate biochemical assays, genomic approaches, and cell-based models.

Grant history shows focus on:

• Chromatin structure in wheat (2019-2020)
• Drought-induced chromatin changes (2019-2022)
• Phytoestrogens research (2024)
• Ini-1 protein studies (2014)

Teaching portfolio includes courses in:

• Physical Chemistry for Biologists
• Biochemistry Laboratory Techniques
• Undergraduate Research Training
• Survey of Biochemistry
• Drugs and Human Well-Being