DNA Repair & Recombination

Current research projects

• Development of targeted therapeutics for cancer and rare disease

  When one genetic pathway is mutated (e.g. BRCA1/2), there can be an increased reliance on another second genetic pathway (e.g. PARP). This second pathway can be targeted in the case of certain cancers and exploits a weakness of the cancer. This relationship is known as synthetic lethality. We are discovering new synthetic lethal relationships in the DNA damage response and are developing the therapeutic tools to exploit them.

  The role of FANCM in mammalian reproduction

  We investigate the FANCM protein, which is required for normal fertility and meiosis. FANCM can remodel a range of unique DNA structures, particularly structures that occur during DNA replication and repair. FANCM is similarly important to keep a number of serious diseases at bay.

  Novel inhibitors of DNA repair as chemotherapy sensitisers in breast cancer

  Using our knowledge of how DNA repair proteins interact, we have designed new inhibitors that can sensitise cancer cells to chemotherapy. We are working to improve these inhibitors so that they may one day be useful in cancer treatment.

  Understanding the molecular mechanisms of cancer predisposition and reducing the burden of common cancers in Australia

  People with Fanconi anaemia (FA), mouth cancer remains a serious problem. People with FA develop mouth cancer at much younger ages than in the general population and often without any known cause. When discovered early, mouth cancer can be treated relatively easily, but treatment becomes much more difficult when cancer is found at later stages. New methods are being developed to detect very early signs of mouth cancer in simple, non-invasive ways. One of these methods involves brushing samples from the mouth with soft brushes and testing these samples for abnormal cells.

  We are currently conducting a research study to see if this test would be helpful for people with FA. We are also interested in learning more about molecules in the saliva that could indicate the presence of cancer, and in improving research collaboration in FA. We are recruiting people with FA to help with this research study, by participating in one or more of the following: donating a small blood sample, brushing certain places in the mouth with soft brushes under our guidance, completing a health questionnaire, and keeping in touch with us.

  We would greatly appreciate your help with this project. If you think you might be interested in joining or want to learn more, please contact Wayne Crismani [email protected]