Grant: Operating Grant

Project Summary: Every time a cell divides, it must accurately distribute one copy of each duplicated chromosome (DNA) to each daughter cell. Errors that cause cells to gain or lose chromosome, chromosome imbalance, is a hallmark of and a likely cause of cancer. Dr. Baetz's laboratory uses the simple model organism yeast to identify and characterize proteins that are essential for maintaining chromosome balance. Previous Research: The powerful techniques available in yeast has allowed for the Baetz laboratory to systematic assess the role of each yeast gene in chromosome stability. This lead to the identification of an enzyme complex named NuA4 which when mutated, resulted in dramatic loss of chromosomes. Project Description: The NuA4 complex regulates the functions of "target" proteins by the addition of small chemical modification call an "acetyl" group. Presently the "target" proteins of NuA4 are largely unknown. In order to begin to understand how NuA4 is regulating chromosome copy numbers, the Baetz laboratory is attempting to identify new targets of NuA4. Once targets are identified, they will asses if these are the important targets in maintaining chromosome stability. Impact and Relevance: The yeast NuA4 complex is remarkably similar to the human NuA4 complex which has been implicated in numerous cancer types. Therefore, discoveries that the Baetz lab can quickly make in yeast will provide insights into the role human NuA4 plays in cancer progression. Increasing our knowledge of genes that prevent chromosome imbalance will significantly advance our understanding of cancer and help in the development of effective new treatments for the disease