Molecular mechanisms of DNA replication termination

Life begins as a single cell, which must then divide many times to produce the trillions of cells that make up complex organisms. Every time a cell divides, it must make a complete, new copy of every one of its 46 chromosomes, each of which consists of a single DNA molecule that contains an individual’s genetic blueprint. Any mistakes made during the copying process are a threat to this genetic blueprint and can cause diseases such as cancer. An improved understanding of the mechanism and regulation of chromosome duplication is therefore essential.

I plan to study the molecular machine that controls chromosome duplication, focusing on how this machine functions during the poorly understood final stages of the duplication process.

This work will contribute towards our understanding of the origin and treatment of cancer.