Research Areas

Research in the Dunn School focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying disease, and falls broadly under four interconnected areas.

Cancer and Genome Stability

Biological processes such as DNA replication and repair, and the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, are critical to maintain genome integrity and normal cell growth. Several Dunn School labs seek to understand how defects in the cell’s machinery can ultimately lead to the development of cancer and other diseases, and to identify novel therapeutic and diagnostic strategies.

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Cell and Developmental Biology

Several Dunn School groups investigate the mechanisms underlying important developmental and cellular processes such as signalling, transcriptional control, cell division, protein trafficking, and genome maintenance. Their research is largely aimed at understanding these processes in human cells, but also their adaptations in other eukaryotes.

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Infection and Immunity

Our researchers use a range of approaches to investigate antigen presentation and immune regulation during health and disease, and study the mechanisms that enable bacterial and viral pathogens to invade and proliferate inside their hosts. Insights gained through these studies are being exploited to manipulate immune responses, and to develop vaccines and therapeutics.

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RNA and Gene Expression

RNA levels and gene expression are controlled by cells in a variety of ways. Our groups use a range of molecular biology approaches to investigate the fundamental mechanisms underlying transcription, transcriptional gene silencing, and RNA processing. By shedding light on these pathways, they aim to define their role in diseases as diverse as neurodegeneration and malignancy.

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