Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry

The Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry offers a wide array of research areas and a vibrant environment for ongoing biomedical research. Researchers in the Department collaborate extensively with physicians and scientists in Israel and abroad, and they tackle fundamental questions by using integrated, interdisciplinary approaches. Due to our efforts, progress has been made in addressing the underlying mechanisms of both monogenic and multigenic human disease and disorders such as diabetes, ataxia-telangiectasia, atherosclerosis, cancer, deafness, blindness, Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and premature aging.

Our researchers employ a range of established and cutting-edge techniques, from mass spectrometry and genome scans to bioinformatics. Equipment and facilities within the Department provide the basis for experimentation, including light and fluorescent microscopy, autoradiographic film developing, tissue culture facilities, a cold laboratory, and a room dedicated to work with radioactivity and viruses. Several specialized research units are located in the Department, including a microinjection room for production of transgenic mice, a P2 tissue culture facility, and the National Laboratory for the Genetics of Israeli Populations. 

Research areas include:

• DNA repair and DNA damage signaling
• molecular cytogenetics and chromosome structure
• RNA processing
• stem cell manipulation
• biological clocks
• biochemistry of red blood cells
• the use of computational biology to study protein structure 
• attempts to slow down the aging and degenerative disorders processes
• drug design toward neuroprotection for Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairments