Johnathan Whetstine

Johnathan R. Whetstine is a Professor and Director of the Cancer Epigenetics Institute at Fox Chase Cancer Center, where he also serves as Program Leader of the Nuclear Dynamics and Cancer Program and holds the Jack Schultz Chair in Basic Science. His research is centered on epigenetic mechanisms driving DNA amplification, genome instability, and drug resistance in cancer.

Education:

• Postdoctoral Fellow, Epigenetics/Pathology, Harvard Medical School, 2002–2007
• PhD, Pharmacology, Wayne State University, 2002

Dr. Whetstine’s research focuses on chromatin regulators, particularly the KDM4A histone demethylase, which his lab discovered promotes transient site-specific copy gains (TSSGs) of oncogenes. His lab investigates how epigenetic cues—such as hypoxia and microRNA regulation—influence DNA replication, cell cycle progression, and therapeutic resistance. They use genomic, epigenomic, and biochemical approaches to map chromatin dynamics during the cell cycle and identify factors that drive extrachromosomal DNA amplification.

The 15 most recent publications highlight a strong focus on epigenetic control of gene amplification (e.g., EGFR, MLL), histone demethylase function, replication timing, and chromatin crosstalk. These studies span cancer types including lung and colorectal cancers and explore therapeutic implications such as mTOR inhibitor sensitivity and epigenetic therapy.

Scientific Awards:

• Lung Cancer Discovery Award (American Lung Association, 2014, 2017, 2019, 2020)
• Tepper Family MGH Research Scholar (2014)
• Basic Research Scholar Award (American Cancer Society, 2013)
• Ellison Medical Foundation New Scholar Award (2009)
• Jack Schultz Chair in Basic Science (2019)

Dr. Whetstine mentors postdoctoral fellows and collaborates with clinicians to translate findings into patient stratification and optimal treatment strategies. He is actively involved in training programs at Fox Chase, emphasizing leadership, communication, and scientific development. His lab is part of a vibrant epigenetics research community that includes annual symposia and industry collaborations.

Research Labs and Teams: The Whetstine Laboratory is a key component of the Cancer Epigenetics Institute at Fox Chase, which fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among epigeneticists, clinicians, and industry partners. The lab leverages advanced technologies in genomics and epigenomics and participates in national and international scientific networks.