WELCOME

We study homologous recombination using budding yeast.  

Homologous recombination plays important roles in both somatic and the germ line cells. 

The major role of homologous recombination in somatic cells is to repair breaks in DNA duplexes (DNA double-strand breaks, or DSBs).  This type of DNA damage is caused either internally, such as errors accompanying DNA replication, or externally by DNA damaging factors, such as cosmic rays. Among multiple pathways to repair DSBs, homologous recombination is the only way to repair them accurately. If homologous recombination becomes defective, cells can no longer maintain the integrity of their genetic material and become highly susceptible to cancer.

In germ line cells where the number of chromosomes is halved to produce haploid gametes, homologous recombination is used to link and orient two homologous chromosomes.  Such recombination events are essential for the creation of reproductive cells that contain the appropriate number of chromosomes.  A defect in homologous recombination can result in gametes with an abnormal number of chromosomes, causing spontaneous abortion and birth defects such as Down's syndrome. 

By studying both mitotic and meiotic recombination using budding yeast as a model system, we aim to understand general principles of homologous recombination as well as its specific controls optimized for certain biological phenomena, such as meiosis.  

Our research work is funded by: