Discovering new ways to generate targeted mutations. Life evolves by acquiring DNA from other organisms or mutating existing DNA sequences. Most mutations are neutral or deleterious. However, some org

Description

Discovering new ways to generate targeted mutations. Life evolves by acquiring DNA from other organisms or mutating existing DNA sequences. Most mutations are neutral or deleterious. However, some organisms have developed site-directed mutagenesis that allows them to evolve small sections of their genomes. Phages, viruses that infect bacteria, are particularly adept at targeted mutagenesis as it allows them to infect many different bacteria. We have identified phages that reproducibly mutate their genomes but have yet to discover how they alter their sequences. We will combine genetic and genomic experiments with bioinformatics to identify new mechanisms phages use to create targeted mutations. These enzymes can be used for biotechnology and genome engineering. . Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3107 - Microbiology. Lead: Prof Robert Edwards