Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory (MCBL)

Overview

The Molecular Cell Biology Lab performs research in the fields of genetic toxicology, DNA damage and repair. The main focus of our lab is to assess the genotoxic potential of environmental compounds and drug additives using different cell-based and molecular assays. To this end, we employ the following methods: 

• Detection of DNA breaks by immunocytochemistry and fluorescence microscopy  
• Micronucleus testing 
• Cytogenetic screening of chromosomal aberrations using metaphase spreads 
• Comet assays 
• Mutagenicity testing (Ames tests) 
• Detection and overexpression of DNA markers by western blotting 

In addition to the above, our lab is interested in addressing fundamental biological questions on the mechanisms that the cells use to respond to genotoxicants. Overall, our laboratory work contributes to evaluating the carcinogenic potential of environmental agents that are considered hazardous, as well as to understanding the molecular pathways that allow the cells to protect themselves from DNA damage. 

Experience and Visibility   

The Molecular Cell Biology Lab has a strong expertise in the field of DNA damage and repair, genomic instability and the molecular carcinogenesis. Based on our background, we aim at establishing ourselves as one of the partner laboratories of the European Society of Environmental Mutagenesis and Genomics. This partnership will open a window of opportunities for international collaborations, helping us further develop our technologies and attract funding. 

Facilities and Lab infrastructure

The Molecular Cell Biology Lab has modern infrastructure that can support basic molecular and cellular biology techniques. In specific, our laboratory includes: 

• A cell culture facility composed of a laminar flow, an inverted light microscope and a cell incubator. 
• A microscopy and imaging post, composed of an upright fluorescent microscope, a camera and a computer 
• A PCR thermal cycler. 
• A protein analysis and Western Blotting facility. 
• Gel Electrophoresis systems for DNA analysis and comet assays. 
• A molecular cloning facility, composed of a spectrophotometer, water bath and shaking incubator.