DNA replication group

One fundamental challenge of cells is to accurately copy their genetic material for cell proliferation. DNA replication is performed by sophisticated multi-protein machines, which must synthesize DNA continuously and copy it accurately at the proper time in the life-cycle of the cell. Many of the replication factors that help replicate DNA act together in a dynamic complex with moving parts referred to as a replisome, loosely analogous to a sewing machine. However, our understanding of how these individual factors interact with one another during the replication processes is still fragmentary. Novel technical developments in Cryo-EM and single-particle analysis combined with protein crystallography and biophysical analyses, now provide biochemists with powerful tools to approach fundamental questions in DNA replication. We aim to approach fundamental questions in DNA replication by using hyperthermophilic Archaea as a model system.