Bunick Lab

Dr. Christopher Bunick is an Associate Professor of Dermatology, specializing in general medical dermatology and dermatologic surgery. He also performs unique dermatologic research studying the three-dimensional structures of skin-related proteins using x-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. He sees patients at Yale Dermatology Associates in Middlebury, CT. Dr. Bunick provides care of patients with all dermatologic conditions.Dr. Bunick received his B.S. at Vanderbilt University (Nashville, TN), and his M.D. and Ph.D. degrees at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. His PhD research studied the three-dimensional structures of calcium-binding proteins and proteins involved in DNA repair processes (e.g. the skin disease xeroderma pigmentosum). He completed medical internship, dermatology residency, and a dermatology research fellowship (mentored by Nobel Laureate Dr. Thomas A. Steitz) at Yale University School of Medicine (New Haven, CT). He performs laboratory research with the goal of using x-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and biochemistry to better understand the structure-function relationship of proteins involved in normal and diseased skin and dermatologic therapeutics.

Unraveling the Intricate Roles of Ubiquitous Proteins in Cellular Regulation Ubiquitous proteins like vimentin, keratin, and ubiquitin may appear unassuming, yet they exert profound influences on the intricate cell signaling networks that orchestrate cellular functions. Deciphering the molecular mechanisms by which these polypeptides modulate complex biological processes has captivated my scientific curiosity. Unraveling their enigmatic interplay with diverse macromolecular partners promises invaluable insights into the exquisite regulatory systems governing cellular behavior, with profound implications for advancing both fundamental understanding and translational applications. At the core of my research endeavors lies the quest to elucidate how ubiquitous proteins selectively interact with and perturb their molecular targets, eliciting specific cellular responses. This necessitates an integrative approach, combining structural biology techniques to visualize molecular interactions, biochemical assays to dissect binding mechanisms, and systems-level analyses to delineate functional consequences. By illuminating the intricate regulatory codes embedded within these protein-protein interactions, we gain a deeper appreciation for the exquisite choreography underlying cellular decision-making processes. Furthermore, this fundamental knowledge holds immense potential to catalyze translational efforts, paving the way for the rational design of protein modulators with therapeutic applications or the development of novel biosensors and synthetic biology tools. Ultimately, my passion lies in unveiling the enigmatic roles of ubiquitous proteins, unlocking doors to both intellectual enlightenment and practical innovation in cell biology and beyond.