Department of Genetics

Molecular Genetics

Division Chief: Nicholas E. Baker, PhD

The data available from the human genome sequencing project, from the gene sequence of other organisms, and the rapidly advancing information about the gene variants associated with disease, make it essential to understand the functions of each gene, how the genes contribute to biological and physiological processes, and what are the consequences of genetic alterations and variability. The goal of the Division of Molecular Genetics is to use molecular and genetic techniques to discover and study the function of genes and their contributions to basic biological mechanisms, health, and disease. Such studies, which make use of organisms such as yeast, the nematode C. elegans, the fruitfly D. melanogaster, and mice, as well as human cells in culture, have already contributed a major part of what is known about modern biology and medicine, and serve as a basis for translational research to develop new medical treatments.

Current research in the Division addresses topics in growth, development, and aging, the structure and function of the nervous system in development and behavior, the regulation of gene expression, and the properties of human viruses. These are described in more detail under individual research laboratories. The research is particularly relevant to the development and treatment of cancers, AIDS, and of neurological and behavioral disorders, as well as aging.

News & Events

News | Drug Discovery News Interview

Dr. Nick Baker was recently interviewed by Drug Discovery News. read more

 

Event | 2/16/2022 9:00 AM

Virtual Event

10th Annual Human Genetics in NYC Meeting Hosted by Dr. J. Greally of Albert Einstein College of Medicine Keynote lecture by Dr. C. Seidman of Harvard Medical School read more

 

News | New Book by Jean Hébert

Jean Hébert, Professor of Neuroscience and Genetics, has recently published a book, Replacing Aging. read more

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