The central aim of my laboratory is to investigate the molecular underpinnings of genome maintenance pathways, specifically emphasizing their influence on anticancer treatment strategies. Despite recent advances in immune and targeted cancer therapies, almost all cancer patients are subjected to cycles of cytotoxic therapy, most often by DNA damaging drugs. Our overarching hypothesis is that a better mechanistic understanding of how DNA repair pathways neutralize DNA adducts formed by antitumor agents in combination with cancer genetics will allow for a more targeted deployment of cytotoxic therapy. This nuanced approach will address the problems of resistance and therapy-limiting side effects.
In pursuit of this objective, my team has significantly contributed to the knowledge of nucleotide excision repair and DNA interstrand crosslink repair, mechanisms triggered in response to antitumor agents such as cisplatin, oxaliplatin, cyclophosphamide or trabectedin. We have furthermore developed new assays to monitor cellular responses to antitumor agents. Our research employs an interdisciplinary approach, integrating organic and bioanalytical chemistry, biochemistry as well as cellular and molecular biology.