The DNA structure is a double-stranded helix, which is packed with proteins into structures called chromosomes to allow for cell division. Altering either the structure or number of chromosomes can lead to cancer. These events are part of a phenomenon called genomic instability. Cancer cells are known to exhibit genomic instability and increasing data indicate that these events may occur early in the formation of cancer. Altered chromosome number is also known to cause reproductive and developmental toxicity.

We study genomic instability by primarily considering two events: 1) Effects on mitotic cell division looking at changes in centrosome number and bypass of the spindle assembly checkpoint as causative factors in altering chromosome number; and 2) Damage to the chromosome structure causing translocations (swapping of pieces of chromosomes amongst different chromosomes) or damage to the kinetochore (the middle structure that holds the arms in place).

Current projects studying metal-induced genomic instability and effects on mitosis in the Wise Laboratory of Environmental and Genetic Toxicity include:

	Chromium Studies		Marine Mammal Studies
	Depleted Uranium Studies
	Arsenic Studies