New results contribute to a more detailed understanding of how the DNA repair protein CSB acts to maintain genomic and cellular integrity and could ultimately contribute to a deeper understanding of why we age.

The CSB protein participates in the repair on lesions to the cellular DNA and thereby counteracts the age-dependent accumulation of DNA damages that otherwise contribute to organ and body deterioration, as we grow old. When absent or defect, CSB causes the devastating premature aging syndrome Cockayne syndrome. Already in their childhood years, patients experience an accelerated development of traits otherwise only seen in normal aging.

In order to better understand the course of normal aging, Christina Hvitby has focused her PhD studies on aspects of the CSB protein. In collaboration with colleagues, she found the CSB protein to act directly in the cellular powerplant, the mitochondria, ultimately affecting the body´s production of energy and integrity.

Her results also place the CSB protein in a new protein-protein cooperation functioning in the repair of DNA lesions.

The PhD degree was completed at the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Science and Technology, AarhusUniversity.

Time: Tuesday 25 March 2014 at 13.00
Place: The Lakeside Lecture Theatres William Scharff (1253-317)
Title of dissertation: New roles of the Cockayne Syndrome Group B protein in genome maintenance
Contact information: Christina Hvitby cph@mb.au.dk +45 2366 5794
Members of the assessment committee:
Professor Lars Eide, Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Oslo, Norway
Associate professor Hanne Cathrine Bisgaard, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Copenhagen University
Associate Professor Anni H. Andersen (chair), Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Main supervisor:
Associate Professor Tinna Ventrup Stevnsner, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Language: The dissertation will be defended in English

The defence is public.
The dissertation is available for reading at the Graduate School of Science and Technology/GSST, Ny Munkegade 120, building 1521, room 112, 8000 Aarhus C.