The human genome is constantly under assault from endogenous and exogenous forms of damage and needs to be repaired to maintain cell viability and prevent oncogenesis. At the same time, DNA damaging agents are used for cancer therapy. Therefore understanding DNA repair is important for both the prevention of cancer as well as its treatment. How do human cells sense DNA damage and activate repair? Are these processes altered in specific disease states? How does the cell promote DNA repair in the context of chromatin and different stages of the cell cycle?

We are broadly interested in understanding DNA repair mechanisms and signaling in human cells, and how these processes may be altered in tumors. Our lab uses a variety of biochemical, cell biological, and animal model systems to answer these questions. Ultimately, we hope to apply the knowledge that we gain to improve diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes for cancer.

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