Overview
Higher eukaryotes have evolved a complex DNA damage response that involves DNA repair, cell cycle control and apoptosis. Aberration in each of these cellular processes can contribute to cancer development. At the same time, fast proliferating cells such as cancer cells are particularly vulnerable to unrepaired DNA damage. This susceptibility provides the basis for radiation therapy and most types of chemotherapy. Therefore elucidating the mechanisms governing DNA repair and the DNA damage response (DDR) can help both cancer prevention and therapy. My lab focuses on examining the mechanisms governing the signalling pathways from DNA damage sensing to the activation of stress-response genes. My long-term goal is to find proteins that are drug targets for cancer treatment (such as radiosensitizers for radiation therapy) or biomarkers that increase the predictive value of therapeutic outcome.
Higher eukaryotes have evolved a complex DNA damage response that involves DNA repair, cell cycle control and apoptosis. Aberration in each of these cellular processes can contribute to cancer development. At the same time, fast proliferating cells such as cancer cells are particularly vulnerable to unrepaired DNA damage. This susceptibility provides the basis for radiation therapy and most types of chemotherapy. Therefore elucidating the mechanisms governing DNA repair and the DNA damage response (DDR) can help both cancer prevention and therapy. My lab focuses on examining the mechanisms governing the signalling pathways from DNA damage sensing to the activation of stress-response genes. My long-term goal is to find proteins that are drug targets for cancer treatment (such as radiosensitizers for radiation therapy) or biomarkers that increase the predictive value of therapeutic outcome.
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