Harmit Malik studies conflicts that occur in our genomes as different genetic entities try to maximize their evolutionary success. Malik and his team are interested in understanding the mechanisms and consequences of these “molecular arms races” and how they drive recurrent genetic innovation, from the perspective of both evolutionary biology and human disease. The team uses Drosophila as a model organism to study centromeres, which are crucial for chromosomal stability during cell division; mobile genetic elements, which can impact host fitness and genome organization; and proteins that evolve rapidly due to their involvement in host-parasite interactions.
DNA belongs in chromosomes, but some tumors stow cancer-promoting genes outside chromosomes, as ecDNA. New research explores how ecDNA violates genetic norms to fuel many cancers, while also offering hope for turning the tables on these malignancies. Research uncovers new information about the biological processes that help ensure that two fly species don’t interbreed. The vaccinia virus increases the size of its genome when it confronts the immune system, thereby increasing the odds of a random mutation that will improve its survival.