The DNA damage response (DDR) has evolved because the genome is constantly exposed to exogenous and endogenous agents that cause damage to DNA. Consequently, cells exhibit a diverse repertoire of molecular mechanisms developed to maintain their genetic integrity. This process involves both the organization of the DNA repair processes themselves and their integration with progression of the cell cycle. Many different types of DNA damage occur, variously affecting the chemistry of the nucleotides, the complementarity of the strands, and the continuity of the backbone.  

Our research is focused on the computational analysis of the gene and proteins involved in the DNA Damage Response. This involves studying both the evolution of the DDR as a system through to using computational methods to predict their viability as drug targets for cancer.