Faculty in Biology

Barry Glickman, Professor darwin@uvic.ca Office: CUNN 217 Office Phone: 250-472-4741 Teaching: Molecular genetics, toxicology, mutagenesis and DNA repair.

Research Interests:
Molecular genetics, toxicology, environmental mutagenesis

It has long been hypothesized that environmental mutagens and carcinogensare responsible for negative effects on human health including cancer,arteriosclerosis and birth defects. Our research is directed to understanding the mechanisms by which environmental exposures and lifestyle choicescause mutation and to determine the extent to which they causemutation in people. To address these problems we make use of newapproaches afforded by biotechnology. Specifically, our studies depend uponan understanding of the nature of mutation at the DNA sequence level. Wehave shown that by understanding the nature and position of mutationalchanges together with the nature of DNA damage, we can often determine whatlesions are directly responsible for mutation. In addition, by changing thedose and the DNA repair backgrounds, we have also been able to learn abouthow the cell can prevent or cause mutation. In addition, because each agentproduces a specific "mutational fingerprint" or "spectrum", we are alsoable to determine by the sequencing of mutations, the source or cause ofmutation. Thus the sequencing of many mutations in individuals can beexpected to reveal whether environmental or occupational exposures are causing mutations in people. The use of new technologies allows us to access mutation directly in people. Complementary studies using transgenic animals allow us to test specific hypotheses.