Grant: Project Grant

Our cells need to make perfect copies of their genetic material (DNA) in order to divide and proliferate thereby allowing our bodies to stay fit and healthy. Errors that occur during this copying process can lead to diseases such as cancer. To avoid this, our cells possess numerous systems to detect the occurrence problems during DNA duplication. Cancer cells often have defects in these protective systems and therefore accumulate genetic abnormalities more readily than healthy cells. This is leveraged by doctors to destroy tumors through the use of chemo- and radio-therapy which cause unsustainable levels of damage to the genetic material of cancer cells. To better understand the mechanisms that protect DNA replication in human cells, we have focused our attention on RFWD3, an important cellular factor that acts as a protector of our genetic material. We have evidence that RFWD3 enables many important pathways that allow accurate and complete genome duplication. Our work will help us understand how RFWD3 allows our cells to fully and accurately replicate their DNA thereby avoiding potential mutations that may lead to cancer. This new information will improve our understanding of the complex pathways that protect our DNA, and guide us in the elaboration of novel strategies that will improve the efficiency of current anti-cancer treatments.