Damon Runyon Researchers

Mitochondria harbor independent genetic material known as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This compact, circular molecule encodes proteins essential for the assembly of the mitochondrial electron transport chain to generate energy in form of ATP. Like nuclear DNA, mtDNA is susceptible to damage and mutations. One of the most common disease-causing aberrations of mtDNA is termed “common deletion.” This aberration disrupts mitochondrial function, resulting in neuromuscular diseases and potentially certain cancers, including colorectal cancer. Due to a lack of tools to modify the mitochondrial genome, researchers currently do not understand the mechanisms behind common deletion. Dr. Kavlashvili [Timmerman Traverse Fellow] aims to investigate by using cutting-edge molecular biology tools to edit and visualize mtDNA genomes. She will then be poised to unravel impacts of this deletion on various tissues, in order to ultimately mitigate its pathological impact. Dr. Kavlashvili received her PhD from Vanderbilt University, Nashville and her BS from University of Iowa, Iowa City.