The Xiaolan Zhao Lab
Research
DNA replication, repair, and damage response, collectively called the 3Rs, support genome stability and faithful genetic inheritance. Proteins involved in the 3Rs are genome guardians that prevent a broad spectrum of diseases, ranging from cancers, immunological and neurodegenerative diseases, to developmental disorders such as diabetes and premature aging. Our lab investigates 3R mechanisms, 3R protein functions and structures, and their links to human disease. Our main research interests include:
- Mechanisms of genome duplication during growth and under stress conditions that mimics carcinogenic exposure or chemotherapeutic treatment.
- DNA repair processes that restore genetic information perturbed by a variety of DNA lesions arising from genotoxic exposures.
- The DNA damage response systems that monitor genome lesion burdens and deploy signaling pathways to induce multi-faceted physiological changes, ranging from metabolic and epigenetic changes, cell cycle delays, to chromosomal organization and maintenance adjustments.
To illuminate 3R processes and genome guardian functions, we have implemented cutting-edge and multi-disciplinary approaches, including genetic, biochemical, cell biological, structural, and genomic strategies. Our broad research scope and approaches provide lab members ample opportunities to explore and discover new biological principles. Our lab also offers a nurturing and supportive environment with tailored mentoring and training to advance lab members’ abilities in research, writing, presentation, and leadership.
Featured News
People
Xiaolan Zhao, PhD
- Molecular biologist Xiaolan Zhao studies chromosomal organization, genome integrity, DNA replication and repair, dynamic protein modification.
- PhD, Columbia University
- zhaox1@mskcc.org
- Email Address
- 212-639-5582
- Office Phone
Members
Achievements
- Bressler Scholar, Alfred W. Bressler Scholar Endowment Fund
- Research Scholar, American Cancer Society
- Scholar, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
- Discovery of the extensive SUMO-based DNA damage response
- Discovery of the connection between the nuclear pore complex and desumoylation
- Discovery of the Smc5/6 complex in budding yeast
- Discovery of the essential function of the DNA replication and damage checkpoint
