At Chaves Lab, we are dedicated to unraveling the molecular mechanisms that safeguard genome integrity. With a strong foundation in protein-DNA interactions, our research focuses on DNA repair, integrating both structural biology and biochemical approaches to gain a comprehensive understanding of these essential cellular processes.

DNA damage occurs constantly due to environmental factors like UV radiation, chemical agents, and oxidative stress. If left unrepaired, these lesions can compromise genomic stability, leading to mutations and cell death. Our lab seeks to understand how cells recognize and repair damaged DNA by investigating the molecular players and structural dynamics involved in DNA repair pathways.

We specialize in Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER), a critical repair system responsible for eliminating bulky, helix-distorting lesions. Using a combination of cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, and biochemical assays, we aim to visualize repair complexes at atomic resolution, deciphering how these intricate molecular machines function. By integrating structural insights with biochemical data, we strive to build a complete picture of DNA repair mechanisms, providing key information that could lead to novel therapeutic strategies.