The Winkler Lab focuses upon the biochemistry/structural biology of macromolecular assemblies effecting cellular metabolism and disease. Specifically, my lab examines aberrant non-native interactions between a variety of macromolecules that hinder normal cellular processes leading to dysfunction. Project 1 focuses on the histone chaperone FACT, which is essential for DNA metabolism within all euka
ryotic cells. FACT dysfunction is linked to numerous malignancies, chemotherapy resistance, and even viral genome integration. We aim to decipher a molecular mechanism for FACT function during normal cellular processes and disease. Project 2 examines a diverse set of pathogenic Sod1 mutants involved in ALS and the inability of these Sod1 variants to mature via productive interaction with its copper chaperone (Ccs1).
