Characterization and functional analysis of a novel cancer-associated gene

In order to identify new candidate cancer-related genes, our lab developed a bioinformatics “guilt-by-association” method to identify and rank genes that are co-expressed with known cancer-related genes. Using this method, we identified C1ORF112, an unstudied gene which we found to be strongly co-expressed with many cancer-related genes, including RAD51, BRCA1 and BRCA2, and with genes involved in DNA repair and cell cycle regulation. We also showed that siRNA knock-down of C1ORF112 in HeLa cells significantly decreases cell growth. Microarray data shows that C1ORF112 is overexpressed in various cancers when compared to normal tissues and that C1ORF112 has high levels of expression in several tumours, and markedly in breast cancer. A gain in copy number in C1ORF112 has been observed in some types of cancer and most significantly in breast cancer. Therefore, we aim to further explore C1ORF112 as a drug target in the context of oncology.

In this project, we aim to evaluate further the role of C1ORF112 in cell proliferation and begin to unravel its functions. Based on its co-expression patterns, we hypothesize that C1ORF112 is related to cell cycle regulation under DNA damage, a hypothesis we will test by studying how disrupting C1ORF112 affects cell cycle progression and levels of DNA damage with and without exposure to genotoxic stress. In addition, we aim to study the C1ORF112 protein in human benign and malignant breast tumours as well as determine if C1ORF112 is correlated with patient outcome. Lastly, we have generated a C1ORF112 conditional knockout mouse to allow further studies. The exact direction of this project and methods to be used, however, will be adapted to fit the research interests and background of the student.

This project’s successful outcome can culminate in the development of new and improved techniques for diagnostic and treatment of cancer, and for breast cancer in particular.

We have a thriving international researcher community and encourage applications from students of any nationality able to fund their own studies or who wish to apply for their own funding. The Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease is fully committed to promoting gender equality in all activities. We offer a supportive working environment with flexible family support for all our staff and students and applications for part-time study are encouraged. The Institute holds a silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of on-going commitment to ensuring that the Athena SWAN principles are embedded in its activities and strategic initiatives.

Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Dr de Magalhaes ([Email Address Removed]) in the first instance for an informal discussion.