The Role of Hhp1 and Hhp2 in DNA repair

The correct chromosome segregation and DNA repair are two processes required for maintenance of genome stability. Failure of these processes may lead to cell death or accumulation of chromosomal aberrations. Defects in chromosome segregation during mitosis contribute to oncogenesis, whereas defects during meiosis cause miscarriages, infertility and genetic diseases such as Down`s Syndrome.The recent observations revealed a functional connection between chromosome segregation and DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair. Recently, Dr. Gregan found that the casein kinases Hhp1 and Hhp2 are required for proper segregation of chromosomes during the first meiotic division. We now want to analyze the role of casein kinases Hhp1 and Hhp2 in chromosome segregation and DNA repair during mitotic growth. We would like to analyze chromosome segregation in mutants lacking Hhp1 and Hhp2, we would like to determine chromosomal distribution of the Hhp1 and Hhp2 and we would like to identify proteins interacting with Hhp1 and Hhp2 during DNA repair. This should help us in the long run to understand mechanisms ensuring faithful chromosome segregation as well as mechanisms responsible for repair of damaged DNA.