Research: Regulation of DNA replication and S-phase checkpoints, and post-replication DNA repair on mammalian cells RESEARCH Summary: Our broad long-term goal is to understand how mammalian cells maintain ordered control of DNA replication during normal passage through an unperturbed cell cycle, and when exposed to genotoxins (DNA-damaging agents). DNA synthesis is a fundamental process for normal growth and development. Accurate replication of DNA is crucial for maintenance of genomic stability. Inaccurate replication of damaged DNA may lead to mutagenesis and cancer. Moreover, many cancers display defects in regulation of DNA synthesis and it is important to understand the molecular basis for aberrant DNA replication in tumors. Since many chemotherapies specifically target cells in S-phase, a more detailed understanding of DNA replication could also allow the rational design of novel cancer therapeutics. Our lab is interested in several aspects of DNA replication control with a particular emphasis on the interplay between S-phase checkpoints and a DNA repair mechanism termed ‘Trans-Lesion Synthesis’ (TLS), as described below.