We are very interested in understanding mechanisms that maintain genomic stability and how dysfunction in these processes results in human diseases such as cancer, infectious diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. We study DNA repair pathways that fix damaged DNA and the translesion synthesis process that tolerates DNA damage. It is the dynamism between these two pathways that maintains genomic health. 

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The lab examines some critical questions on cancer resistance: 1) What factors drive cancer onset? 2) How cancer cells divide unabated and relapse after initial treatment. 3) How can therapeutic targeting rescue cancer resistance? We specifically investigate one translesion synthesis protein, REV1, that might help address missing links in understanding cancer etiology. We are also examining how stress factors might influence REV1’s functionality in cancer sustenance and therapy resistance.

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The lab also actively explores the consequences of disrupting pathways that maintain genomic health in triplet repeat disorders. We are particularly interested in examining the interplay between stress responses and DNA repair that cause repeat instability, including the role of exogenous environmental conditions that might cause repeat instability. 

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We have recently expanded our investigations of the DNA repair and translesion synthesis pathways during host cell response to virus infections. We have actively pursued how RNA viruses, SARS-CoV-2, Dengue, influenza, and others impact host DNA damage responses, including the expression and function of DNA repair and translesion synthesis proteins. We also study the therapeutic targeting of these viruses. 

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The lab employs several molecular, biochemical, chemical, and virology tools to address these compelling questions. We have expertise in tissue culturing, DNA damage, cytotoxicity assays, infections, pPCR/PCR, western blotting, microscopy, and other molecular biology methods. We welcome our students, colleagues, and collaborators to join hands in this marvelous adventure!

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Note on Inclusive Excellence

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The Chatterjee Lab is strongly committed to 'Inclusive Excellence' as stipulated in the University of Vermont bylaws, explicitly supporting individuals from all backgrounds. We believe in fostering respect and including all hard-working people in a place where each voice and each person matters. Success and creativity in Science are the direct product of scientists from different backgrounds who collectively shape innovation and scientific breakthroughs.  Our team hails from various backgrounds, and we welcome all interested individuals who want to make a difference in Science and discovery. We embrace and uphold the tenets of Our Common Ground and the Larner College of Medicine Professional Statement. We welcome all!