Study of DNA double-strand break repair in tumor model

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The so-called double-strand breaks (DSB) are the most lethal DNA lesions, which can be potent sources of mutations and thus become the beginning of irreversible genetic changes leading to degenerative illnesses, including cancer. At the same induction of DSBs introduced in the proper setup can become an unsolvable problem for the cells, particularly in specific genetic backgrounds typical for cancer, which fact is the rationale for a plethora of cancer treatment strategies. Thus the way cells deal with DSBs is under the great interest of current medicinal and biological research. The Ph.D. student will practice several methods of induction of DSBs via various sources such as gamma rays, alpha particles, UV light and various chemical inducers. Next will be studied the molecular mechanisms the cell deal with this type of DNA damage. Emphasis will be put on differences between normal and cancer cells and their potential exploration for cancer therapy. Student will also learn mutiple laboratory techniques including cell culture, RNA/DNA transfections, advanced microscopic techniques, live-cell imaging, and various biochemical analysis of proteins.