Research summary
Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. A common trait of cancer is a high frequency of mutations and DNA rearrangements (or genome instability), which occurs due to DNA damage. Damaged DNA in cells is repaired through sophisticated pathways, some of which involve structure-selective endonucleases (the enzymes that break connections in DNA). These molecular "scissors" remove toxic DNA structures to ensure accurate repair. But errors in these enzymes or their actions can also fuel genome instability.
Dr. Haley Wyatt, Canada Research Chair in Mechanisms of Genome Instability, is examining the structures and functions of structure-selective endonucleases. She and her research team are using state-of-the-art methods in biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology and cellular biology to identify how cells execute accurate DNA repair to prevent diseases like cancer. Working with experts in Canada and around the world, they hope to bolster Canada’s position as a leader in DNA repair and genome stability research.