Description: Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER) is an evolutionarily conserved DNA repair mechanism that targets bulky, DNA distorting lesions; a central feature that permits the repair of a diverse range of damage. Notably, this mechanism is largely error free. The molecular mechanism of NER has been determined at the atomic level, and the critical steps observed in bacteria and yeast are fully conserved in human. Mutations in NER cause a number of diseases in human, including xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), Cockayne Syndrome (CS), and trichothiodistrophy.
This mini-course will summarize the key findings discovered in E. coli and yeast, and proceed to illuminate the greater complexity observed in humans. The underlying biochemical details and primary experimental approaches will be discussed.
Each lecture will cover an important element of this repair pathway and will be accompanied by 1-2 papers. Although Dr. Madura will discuss each paper during the lecture, it is expected that the participants will be familiar with the material so that we can engage in a productive discussion.
Organization: Dr. Madura will present all the lectures. Relevant publications pertinent to each lecture will be provided, and students are expected to review these studies before each lecture.
Grading: Attendance to all lectures is mandatory, and participation in discussion is expected. A final exam will be conducted during the last lecture period.