The Bolcun-Filas Lab
Researching meiosis, the mechanisms of DNA damage detection and repair during normal development, and implications for cancer patients during radiation and chemotherapy.
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Germ cells are the only cell type that must endure extensive DNA damage in the form of programmed meiotic double-strand breaks (DSBs) during their normal development. Paradoxically, the absence of DSBs during meiosis as well as persisting unrepaired breaks are detrimental and typically result in meiotic arrest and infertility. Our research aims to understand the molecular mechanisms controlling the development of healthy gametes and how misregulation of these mechanisms can lead to reproductive disorders. In particular, we are interested in meiotic "quality checkpoints" operating in germ cells, which ensure that the correct and intact genetic information is transmitted to the next generation.
The same checkpoint that monitors DSB repair during meiosis is responsible for high sensitivity of oocytes to cancer treatment. Chemo and radiation therapies can cause oocyte death and lead to premature ovarian failure and infertility. Disabling the key checkpoint kinase CHK2 preserved fertility in mice exposed to ionizing radiation, thus opening a new avenue for oncofertility research. Our goal is to further dissect the DNA damage response pathway in oocytes, helping identify additional targets for fertility preservation therapies in cancer patients.
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Featured ArticleJuly 13, 2021Breaking stigmas and making strides in reproductive health
Bolcun-Filas studies the genetics of fertility and ways to protect fertility in cancer patients: especially the molecular pathways that control the development of healthy oocytes. Understanding how these pathways can be manipulated could hold the key to preserving ovarian function in cancer patients. -
Search MagazineJuly 02, 2019Who does what in a lab: scientist job titles explained
Ever wonder who does what in a research lab? We joined the Bolcun-Filas group for a day to learn about the scientists who work together on female fertility. -
Research HighlightJune 21, 2018Finding the genes controlling ovarian reserve could hold key to better female fertility care
Jackson Laboratory Assistant Professor Ewelina Bolcun-Filas, Ph.D., is looking at how multiple genetic factors regulating oocyte development determine the differences in each woman’s ovarian reserve. -
Press ReleaseMay 17, 2016Preserving fertility in women receiving cancer treatment
Female cancer patients may be able to retain their fertility during radiation and chemotherapy through treatments that target the DNA damage response in oocytes.
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Featured ArticleDecember 16, 2020Combining a love of science with a passion for impact
JAX postdoctoral researchers utilize The Jackson Laboratory’s unique research environment to pursue their dreams. -
Blog PostOctober 31, 2018Can we do a better job of preserving fertility and ovarian function for young breast cancer survivors?
Young women with a new cancer diagnosis are faced with a number of challenges. These patients (and their providers) are often anxious to begin treatment right away. The problem is that many young women haven’t started or completed their families at the time of their diagnosis. -
Research HighlightJune 09, 2017Preventing infertility in cancer treatment
JAX researcher Ewelina Bolcun-Filas, Ph.D., contributed to a study that could advance development of drugs to prevent infertility caused by cancer-treating radiation. -
Search MagazineDecember 01, 2015Why is cancer so difficult to cure?
Targeted therapies will yield huge gains, with fewer severe side effects, compared to the sledgehammer chemotherapeutic and radiation approaches — which kill all quickly dividing cells — currently serving as the standard of care.