Tijsterman Group

Genome dynamics and stability

Our primary research interest is how organisms, cells or genomes maintain genetic integrity. We use the model organism C. elegans to identify and characterize genes whose loss results in enhanced levels of spontaneous mutagenesis. We combine newly developed in vivo assays (e.g. to monitor double-strand break repair; microsatellite instability; G4 DNA instability) with systematic genome-wide RNAi screenings. The most promising genes identified in these screens are being studied in further detail using genetic and molecular approaches. We have also progressively worked towards more efficient and faster RNAi screening methods with the aim to perform synthetic lethal screens in an animal system..

About the research

Key publications
Kruisselbrink, E., Guryev, V., Brouwer, K., Pontier, D.B., Cuppen, E., Tijsterman, M. (2008) Mutagenic capacity of endogenous G4 DNA underlies genome instability in FancJ-defective C. elegans. Curr. Biol. 18: 900-905.

Vastenhouw, N.L., Brunschwig, K., Okihara, K.L., Muller, F., Tijsterman, M., Plasterk R.H. (2006) Gene expression: long-term gene silencing by RNAi. Nature 442: 882.

van Haaften, G., Romeijn, R., Pothof, J., Koole, W., Mullenders, L.H., Pastink, A., Plasterk, R.H., Tijsterman, M. (2006) Identification of conserved pathways of DNA-damage response and radiation protection by genome-wide RNAi. Curr. Biol. 16: 1344-1350.

Pothof, J, van Haaften, G, Thijssen, K, Kamath, R.S., Fraser, A.G., Ahringer, J, Plasterk, R.H., Tijsterman, M (2003) Identification of genes that protect the C. elegans genome against mutations by genome-wide RNAi. Genes Dev. 17: 443-448.

Tijsterman, M., Ketting, R.F., Okihara, K.L, Sijen, T., Plasterk R.H. (2002) RNA helicase MUT-14-dependent silencing triggered in C. elegans by short antisense RNAs. Science 295: 694-697.

Publication list