Since the start of the RepState project, we have made significant progress in both the scientific and organizational aspects of the project. We have:
-successfully recruited 13 talented DCs, who are now actively engaged in their research projects across the consortium.
-organized three face-to-face meetings, facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange among project partners, young researchers, and external experts.
-organized three scientific workshops, two of which were preceded by pre-online modules to prepare the DCs with foundational knowledge. These workshops have focused on advanced methodologies and concepts related to DNA repair state machines, equipping the researchers with both theoretical and practical skills.
-organized the secondments. 9 secondments are now completed, with the students gaining valuable experience and expanding their networks by working in different academic settings.
These achievements demonstrate that the project is on track, with important milestones reached in both training and research activities.
-We created MMR and TC-NER protein variants with mutations in their ATPase site and heterodimeric and crosslinked variants. We are analysing these variants using biochemical, structural and single molecule approaches including DNA and protein binding assays, R-loop formation, cryoEM, mass spectrometry, FRET incision and excision assays and in vivo imaging.
These activities reflect strong progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of DNA repair while addressing challenges through adaptations to ensure project success.
