Characterization of Dbf4/Cdc7 function in DNA replication and cell cycle checkpoint responses

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My research group is using budding yeast in studies of cell division. We are currently focusing our investigations on identifying and characterizing protein factors that control the initiation of DNA replication (duplication of the genetic material). Budding yeast has proven to be a very useful organism for such studies because it is one of the few species for which the starting points for DNA replication (origins of replication) have been well characterized. This has facilitated the identification of numerous protein factors that regulate these replication origins. Dbf4 and Cdc7 are two such proteins which work together to trigger replication. In addition to their function in DNA replication, Dbf4 and Cdc7 are important for cellular 'checkpoint' functions, which prevent duplication of DNA when it has been damaged. Research in my lab is centered on a better understanding of the way these proteins work together, and interact with other proteins in the cell, to carry out their essential roles in cell division. Importantly, versions of Dbf4 and Cdc7 appear to exist and function in much the same way in cells from a wide variety of species. Therefore, the  results of these studies will help us better determine how organisms, including humans, grow and develop, as well us help us understand how cells respond when they are exposed to environmental pollutants that cause DNA damage.