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Section Biochemistry

«Proteins that support DNA replication and DNA repair are of interest to our research for two reasons. On the one hand, they represent interesting targets in cancer therapy, and on the other hand, they can be used as molecular tools in diagnostics and bioanalysis.»

Dr. Kerstin Gari

Head of section Biochemistry

Point-of-care tests play an important role in developing countries and structurally weak areas because they enable rapid diagnostics without laboratory infrastructure and trained medical staff. The aim of our research is to develop and optimize diagnostic tests based on isothermal amplification of viral or pathogenic DNA. We benefit from our expertise in the purification of proteins and the development of in vitro assays with DNA helicases, DNA polymerases and other DNA binding proteins.

Research

The genetic information of every cell is encoded in its DNA. A variety of proteins work together to replicate and repair DNA before each cell division, including DNA polymerases, helicases, and nucleases.

DNA repair proteins as targets in cancer therapy

The genome of cancer cells is often unstable and has an altered DNA repair landscape. For example, certain DNA repair pathways are switched off, while alternative DNA repair pathways are of particular importance. This dependence on specific DNA repair pathways can be exploited in targeted cancer treatment. Our goal is to identify suitable therapeutic targets from the multitude of DNA repair proteins and to develop specific inhibitors.

Isothermal amplification methods in diagnostics

DNA (e.g., from viruses and pathogens) can be amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using a thermostable DNA polymerase and can be detected and quantified with relatively simple means. However, this requires a thermal cycler that allows rapid changes between different temperatures. In developing countries and structurally weak areas, such devices are usually not available, nor are there appropriately trained medical personnel who could operate them. Various isothermal DNA amplification methods have therefore been developed in recent years, through which DNA can be amplified at a constant temperature and with minimal equipment. The aim of our research is to further develop isothermal amplification methods so that they can be used as so-called point-of-care tests to detect pathogens or viruses.

Competencies

  • Protein production in insect cells, human cells and bacteria
  • Purification of proteins
  • Functional characterization of purified proteins
  • Development of in vitro assays (e.g., EMSA, helicase and nuclease assays, as well as DNA amplification assays)
  • Protein-protein interaction assays
  • Production of stable cell lines and CRISPR/Cas9 knock-out cell lines
  • Cell viability tests
  • BioID
  • Single molecule DNA fiber assay
  • Single cell electrophoresis (Comet Assay)

Team

Dr Kerstin Gari

Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry and Head ...

+41 (0) 58 934 50 49
kerstin.gari@zhaw.ch