Research
DNA topology
The study of supercoiling, knotting and linking of DNA in cells, and of the enzymes that regulate these features, the topoisomerases. In particular, I am interested in the mechanism of action of the type II topoisomerases, including DNA gyrase. These enzymes perform the notable feat of passing a double-stranded DNA through a break in a second double-stranded molecule, a process that requires the hydrolysis of ATP. I am particularly interested in the energetics of the mechanism. Interfering with this process is frequently lethal for cells, so these enzymes are targets for antibacterial and anti-tumour agents.
Oxidative DNA damage and 8-nitroG
8-nitro guanine is a relatively unstudied DNA oxidative lesion, which may be involved in the progression to cancer in inflamed tissues. We are trying to understand the mutagenic effect of this altered nucleotide in vitro and in vivo, and its potential repair.
Research grants
Molecular Interconnect for Nanotechnology (MINT).
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
January 2002 - June 2005
Investigating nitration-damaged DNA using a mimic of 8-nitro-2'-deoxyguanosine
ENGINEERING & PHYSICAL SCIENCES RESEARCH COUNCIL
January 2010 - August 2013
DNA Gyrase and DNA Topoisomerase II: Mechanism of Action and Interaction with Drugs.
WELLCOME TRUST (UK)
October 2000 - August 2004
The ATPase Activity of Human DNA Topoisomerase II alpha.
WELLCOME TRUST (UK)
October 2000 - October 2001
Sensing and the biological response in plants (SENSIBLE).
EUROPEAN COMMISSION
April 2006 - March 2010
Research collaborations
Rick Cosstick
8-nitroG and DNA repair
Lesley Iwanejko
8-nitro G and DNA repair
Tony Maxwell
John Innes Centre
DNA topology and topoisomerases
Sarah Harris
University of Leeds
Molcular dynamics of DNA structure/DNA topology