Development and application of novel next-generation sequencing and single-cell genomics methods to studying DNA double-strand breaks

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are one of the most lethal types of DNA lesions. Despite extensive studies on their sensing and repair, our knowledge on how genome breaks in response to various stressors is still very limited. In this project we will develop novel genomic and single-cell tools for genome-wide labelling of DSBs and apply them to: investigate DNA damage response in relation to chromatin modifications and 3D genome organization, study replication stress response in yeast and analyse its radiation breakomes to calibrate NASA exposure biosensor, explore DSBs landscapes in cancer samples, and unravel phenomenon of extreme tolerance of African midge. These studies will have a profound impact on our understanding of molecular mechanisms of DSBs formation and repair. As DSBs are a driving force in genomic instability, a hallmark of almost all cancers, obtained results will be invaluable for discovering more effective methods of their diagnosis and treatment.