Additional Information

Elucidate how genomic stability controls mitochondrial metabolism

Goal: Using metabolism-centered CRISPR screens, we aim to understand how genomic stability controls energetic mitochondrial metabolism.

Cells with defects in  DNA repair exhibit significant alterations in genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis as well as impaired energy metabolism due to higher levels of PARylation and subsequent depletion of NAD+ following DNA damage. Notably, the combined effects of changes in mitochondrial activity and increased genomic instability during aging create an environment prone to the development of a wide range of neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. In addition, this combination is particularly prominent in metastatic cancer cells.

We are using a metabolic CRISPR screen to access how genomic stability controls mitochondrial homeostasis and how this process fosters cancer cell survival. Our ultimate goal is to define new strategies to overcome resistance in cancer therapy.