DNA carries the instructions that a cell uses to function and survive. Each time a human cell divides, it needs to rapidly and accurately replicate over 6 billion bases-pairs of genetic code. This process is challenged frequently by DNA damage and conflicts with other cellular processes. Disruption of replication is a major source of genome instability and contributes to cancer and ageing. Research in the Semlow lab focuses on uncovering the mechanisms that allow cells to tolerate and resolve challenges to DNA replication. By combining genetic and chemical biology approaches with a powerful cell-free extract system that faithfully models vertebrate replication, the lab investigates the biochemical pathways that overcome replication stress. The ultimate goal of this work is to identify therapeutic strategies that either suppress diseases caused by DNA repair deficiencies or enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy.

Daniel Semlow is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at the California Institute of Technology. He received his PhD from The University of Chicago in the lab of Jonathan Staley. Dan completed his postdoctoral training with Johannes Walter at Harvard Medical School. He is the recipient of an NIH Pathway to Independence award.

Semlow Lab