The Integrative Molecular Genetics Laboratory aims to understand telomere biology in stem cells, aging, and cancer. Our research focuses on how telomeres (the protective caps at the end of each DNA strand) and telomerase (an enzyme that maintains and lengthens telomeres) are regulated and how they become dysfunctional in aging and cancer. By understanding telomere biology, we hope to develop exercise and diet interventions and drug and small molecule therapies to manipulate telomere biology in aging and cancer.