Grant: Project Grant

Every human is born with new mutations. Some of these mutations have devastating effects on newborns but most of these mutations have no effect on cell physiology, even if they slightly alter gene functions. This robustness to mutations is due to the architecture of cellular networks that makes them able to accommodate slight variation in gene functions. For instance, some genes are present in multiple copies and the alteration of one copy has little effect because the second copy masks defects in the first one. It is largely unknown whether the presence of multiple copies is the only mechanism of robustness or if other mechanisms are in place. In order to better be able predict what the effects of mutations may be, we need to learn about these mechanisms of robustness. Our plan is to systematically assess the integrity of cellular networks when affected by mutations using cutting edge technologies to manipulate the genome and measuring the organization of cellular networks in living cells using model organisms. On the long term, our results will allow for better predictions of the effect of mutations. In addition, a better understanding of the mechanisms of robustness will help improve the engineering of drugs whose effects are to restore physiological balance in cells.