Colorado State University Researchers Develop New Method to Study DNA Replication
Researchers at Colorado State University have discovered a new way to study DNA replication using genetically modified yeast. This method offers a clearer understanding of cell cycle arrest, which is crucial for cancer treatment and genetic research. The study, led by Assistant Professor Grant Schauer, was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Understanding DNA Replication
The research focuses on hydroxyurea, a drug used in cancer treatment and research to halt cell development. This helps scientists study how cells copy DNA before they divide. However, the drug was found to create harmful reactions in cells, affecting the study of DNA replication.
New Approach with Genetically Modified Yeast
To overcome these issues, the team developed a system using genetically engineered yeast cells called RNR-deg. This system is less toxic and quickly reversible compared to hydroxyurea. The new method could change how researchers study cell arrest.
Future Research
The team plans to transfer this technique from yeast cells to human cells. Schauer believes this new method is a superior alternative to hydroxyurea, as it avoids the negative effects that have hindered understanding in the past.
Contributions and Funding
The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health, with contributions from undergraduate researchers, including Hannah Reitman, who gained valuable experience through the project.
Doubts Revealed
Colorado State University -: Colorado State University is a big school in the United States where people go to learn and do research. It’s like a college where smart people study different subjects.
DNA Replication -: DNA replication is a process where cells make a copy of their DNA. It’s like making a duplicate of a book so that both the original and the copy can be read.
Genetically Modified Yeast -: Genetically modified yeast is a type of yeast that scientists have changed to help them study things. It’s like changing a toy to see how it works better.
Cell Cycle Arrest -: Cell cycle arrest is when cells stop growing or dividing. It’s like pressing the pause button on a video to stop it from playing.
Cancer Treatment -: Cancer treatment is the way doctors try to help people get better from cancer. It includes medicines and other methods to stop cancer cells from growing.
Hydroxyurea -: Hydroxyurea is a medicine used in research and sometimes to treat diseases. It can have side effects, like making cells react in a bad way.
Yeast-based System -: A yeast-based system is a method that uses yeast to study or do something. Yeast is a tiny organism that helps in making bread rise and is used in scientific research.
Reversible -: Reversible means something can be changed back to how it was before. It’s like being able to undo a mistake in a drawing.
