Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology

The central dogma of molecular biology relates to the flow of genetic information from DNA (the storage site) to RNA (the messenger), which in turn acts as a template for protein synthesis.  These fundamental processes are regulated precisely in cells that form building blocks of tissues within our bodies. They underpin differences in cells of different tissue types and are altered in disease.   

Research in the division therefore spans biology at different scales from molecules to cells and tissues and explores relevance across these levels to human diseases. Our activities include exploring the molecular basis of genetic programs (DNA replication, transcription, epigenetics, splicing and translation); understanding the mechanisms of sub-cellular organisation and dynamics (chromosome inheritance, cell polarity, membrane traffic) and revealing the principles of cellular differentiation and how tissues and organs are formed. 

To facilitate our research, we have established shared resources for advanced technologies including Microscopy, Human Pluripotent Cell culture, Proteomics, and High Content screening. We find that collaboration is an effective and enjoyable way of working across scales and facilitating the translation of our discoveries. 

Facilities

Facilities within the School of Life Sciences that are led by principal investigators within MCDB:

Dundee Imaging Facility

Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Facility

FingerPrints Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry Facility 

National Phenotypic Screening Centre (NPSC)

Cryo-Electron Microscopy Facility