Contact information
Dr Daniela Moralli
Research summary:
De novo human artificial chromosomes (HAC) are small, extrachromosomal elements, which possess a centromere and are able to replicate and segregate correctly as stable chromosomes. De novo HAC are formed by delivering vectors carrying centromere specific DNA (alpha satellite DNA) to target cells. Because they behave as autonomous chromosomes they can be used as a model to study complex chromosomal features such as the centromere. The aim of my project is to characterise the HAC structure and chromatin composition in different cells types, both immortalized cell line and stem cells, by using a combination of FISH (Fluorescent in situ hybridization) on metaphase spreads, and chromatin fibres, immunological techniques and chromatin immunoprecipitaion (ChIP).
A further interest is the identification of cellular factors involved in HAC formation and maintenance.
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
Recent publications
-
Replacement of surgical vasectomy through the use of wild-type sterile hybrids
Journal article
Preece C. et al, (2021), Lab Animal
-
Genomic Instability Is an Early Event in Aluminium-Induced Tumorigenesis.
Journal article
Mandriota SJ. et al, (2020), International journal of molecular sciences, 21
-
Specific Mechanisms of Chromosomal Instability Indicate Therapeutic Sensitivities in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Carcinoma.
Journal article
Tamura N. et al, (2020), Cancer research, 80, 4946 - 4959
-
Targeting TRIM37-driven centrosome dysfunction in 17q23-amplified breast cancer.
Journal article
Yeow ZY. et al, (2020), Nature, 585, 447 - 452
-
ZCWPW1 is recruited to recombination hotspots by PRDM9 and is essential for meiotic double strand break repair
Journal article
Wells D. et al, (2020), eLife, 9
Research Areas:
Molecular biology, cellular biology, cytogenetics
Keywords:
Human artificial chromosomes, centromere, chromatin, chromosome stability