Roles for Telomere Damage in Cancer and Aging

Telomeres cap chromosome ends and profoundly influence genome stability, life span and human health.  When chromosomes lose their telomere caps, cells can no longer divide and regenerate, which drives degenerative diseases during aging.  Loss of telomeric caps in pre-cancerous cells drives genetic alterations that hasten the progression to cancer.  Telomeres shorten with age, but genetic and environmental factors can accelerate telomere loss.  We are investigating how damage at telomeres impacts their function, and whether or how the damage is repaired.  

We aim to develop novel strategies that preserve telomeres in healthy cells and delay aging-related diseases including cancer, or that conversely target telomeres to stop proliferation in cancer cells.  

Postdoctoral and other positions available!