Michael Hawgood
Phd Student
E-mail: michael.hawgood@ki.se
Visiting address: Tomtebodavägen 23A, 17165 Solna
Postal address: C2 Medicinsk biokemi och biofysik, C2 Genome biology Lemmens, 171 77 Stockholm
About me
- PhD student in cancer genetics: investigating how human cells replicate DNA.
*PhD Student *
Genetics | Molecular Biology | Cell Biology | Cell Division | DNA
Replication | Cancer
MSc Human Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
BSc Genetics (Industrial), University of Leeds, UK
Research
- /How do human cells copy DNA?/
DNA replication is a fundamental process occurring during cell division. It
is a highly regulated operation, ensuring that DNA is copied correctly
before the cell divides. This is paramount for preventing the accumulation
of mutations and maintaining genome stability.
However, accelerated cell proliferation is a hallmark of cancer.
Consequently, these cells are forced to start replicating their DNA
prematurely and in an uncontrolled manner.
Presently, the mechanisms regulating DNA replication initiation in human
cells are poorly understood, obstructing the development of improved,
selective cancer therapies.
I am therefore investigating how DNA replication is initiated in human cells,
with the aim to uncover novel therapeutic targets and identify new
anti-cancer drugs that improve patient care.
To define a framework for the DNA replication mechanism, I am utilising a
time-resolved genetics strategy which involves innovative protein depletion
methods and CRISPR gene editing technology, together with advanced microscopy
techniques.
Combining these state-of-the-art technologies provides me with a powerful
toolkit, allowing me to study DNA replication at an uncharted level.