James M. Berger

Research Overview

Research in my laboratory is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms and cellular functions of multisubunit assemblies that control the organization, preservation, and flow of genetic information. We are particularly interested in developing atomic-level models that explain how chemical energy is transduced into force and motion, and how dynamic assemblies control DNA replication, gene expression, chromosome superstructure, and other essential nucleic-acid transactions.

The group’s approach relies on a blend of structural, biochemical, and biophysical methods to define the architecture, function, evolution, and regulation of biological complexes. X-ray crystallography and traditional biochemistry have traditionally formed the core of our methodology; however, we are increasingly merging these tools with single-molecule, chemical biological, electron microscopic, and proteomic approaches.

Ongoing project areas are focused on replication initiation mechanisms, molecular control of DNA superstructure, ring ATPase assembly and mechanism, and applied and translational research.

Additional Titles

Director, Institute for Basic Biomedical Sciences