Molecular Genetics Laboratory
Research Summary
The Laboratory of Molecular Genetics (LMG), led by Laboratory Chief William C. Copeland, Ph.D. ("/Rhythmyx/assembler/render?sys_contentid=46902&sys_revision=1&sys_variantid=1173&sys_context=0&sys_authtype=0&sys_siteid=&sys_folderid=" sys_dependentvariantid="1173" sys_dependentid="46902" inlinetype="rxhyperlink" rxinlineslot="103" sys_dependentid="46902" sys_siteid="" sys_folderid=""), comprises nine research teams investigating fundamental mechanisms of genetic stability and instability. A major NIEHS focus is on long-delayed, environmentally-determined diseases initiated or enhanced by mutations. These include both heritable birth defects and cancer, which together afflict over a million people each year in this country alone. The decades that may elapse between exposure and disease render such genetically initiated conditions difficult to study. Thus, one of the best points of attack is the mutation process itself, including gene mutations, larger chromosomal mutations and genome mutations (losses or gains of entire chromosomes).
The LMG investigates the following topics:
- Fundamental mechanisms of mutation, including the induction of DNA damage, the repair of such damage, ways to avoid mutations while replicating past unrepaired damage, and ways that damage does cause mutations
- The generation of mutations by polymerase errors during DNA replication, even in the absence of damage
- Fundamental mechanisms of DNA and chromosome replication, especially in the context of mutagenesis
- Genomics, especially as it relates to mutagenesis and the impact of mutations on individuals and populations
- The evolution and phylogenetics of spontaneous mutation
- The relation between genetic variation in humans and their risks of disease following exposure to toxic agents
Scientific Support Staff
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Gezell Jones
Administrative Assistant -
Tel (919) 541-3196
Fax (919) 541-7593
walden1@niehs.nih.gov