Investigating the role of RNA dependent DNA repair in childhood cancer

Damage to our genetic material DNA is responsible for a wide range of human diseases including neurodegenerative diseases, haematological diseases, immune deficiencies, early ageing and cancers. Although external agents such as radiation, alcohol or cigarette smoke are responsible for a proportion of DNA damage, by far the majority of DNA damage occurs as a consequence of normal cellular processes. In the last few years, it has become apparent that an important source of DNA damage is caused by conflicts between the processes of transcription and replication that decode and duplicate our genome respectively. These transcription replication conflicts (TRCs) are greatly elevated when cellular growth is stimulated. Recently we identified a role for the RNA helicase, DHX9, in both the generation of TRCs and the repair of the DNA damage they cause. In this project we will use advanced high-resolution microscopy, cellular biology and molecular genetics to determine how DHX9 plays such an important role in the repair of DNA damage and how defects in the function of this important protein contributes to disease, such as the childhood cancer Ewing sarcoma. This project will involve close partnership with other top labs in the UK and USA with a focus on developing treatments for DNA damage related diseases.

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Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.