Overview
The University of Sussex Genome Damage and Stability Centre (GDSC) has a long-standing and well-established international reputation as world-leading research Centre in the field of genome instability and disease. We host numerous elected Fellows of prestigious scientific societies such as the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO), the Academy of Medical Sciences, and the prestigious Royal Society. Since its inception in 2001, the GDSC has been awarded >£110 million in research grant income from the government, charities, and the pharmaceutical sector.
The Challenge
The genome in our cells is damaged thousands of times each day, by natural chemicals in our cells and by environmental radiation and toxins. If not detected and quickly repaired, DNA damage can lead to mutations and diseases such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and premature ageing. An understanding of the basis of these diseases is therefore important for their clinical management and for developing clinical therapies.
Partnerships
Whilst the primary remit of the GDSC is ground-breaking discovery science and disease diagnostics, we contribute significantly to translational research by engagement with drug discovery activities internally and externally, and in collaboration with pharmaceutical companies such as Merck, Artios, and AstraZeneca.
Our Research
It is the mission of the GDSC to identify the human genes and mechanisms that repair DNA damage and to elucidate how these genes protect us from human genetic and somatic disease.
Our impact
The specialist expertise and knowledge within the GDSC has led to an invaluable service that helps clinicians in the NHS and around the world diagnose patients with genome instability and neurological disease. Our work also helps to bring together patients and families, who are then able to create support networks to share knowledge, expertise, and experiences. This work forms the basis of two ground-breaking REF impact case studies.
Case study – The ‘gene hunters’ who give hope to those with rare diseases
Case study – From diagnosis to life with a genetic condition.
