Ian Gibbs-Seymour

Research in our laboratory is focussed on understanding the mechanisms of DNA repair, which is a cellular process that functions to maintain the integrity of DNA. Failure to properly regulate protein signalling in DNA repair leads to various cancers, so understanding this regulation is essential. This regulation is achieved, in part, by post-translational modifications (PTMs) such ADP-ribosylation, phosphorylation and ubiquitylation. Importantly, enzymes involved in the regulation of PTM signalling are attractive anticancer targets. Our research aims to understand the roles and mechanisms of these proteins within the context of replication-coupled DNA repair, with a focus on ubiquitin signalling.

To address our research aims, we employ a range of biochemical, cellular and genetic approaches, which are supported by the world-class facilities in the Department of Biochemistry and broader Oxford research environment. More specifically, we are using advanced microscopy, proteomics, and the latest CRISPR/Cas9-based genetic tools within these approaches to identify and characterise mechanisms of mammalian genome stability and DNA repair.