Professor Trevor McMillan

Peel Professor of Cancer Biology; Pro Vice Chancellor - Research

Research Interests

My research efforts at the present time are directed towards the characterisation of the mechanistic and genetic basis of sensitivity to DNA damage in mammalian cells in relation to cancer predisposition and therapy. The significance of the interaction between inherited sensitivity to carcinogenic agents and environmental exposure is at the heart of this work. Assays of DNA damage induction and repair, as well as the evaluation of gene expression and apoptosis in cells irradiated with ionising radiation and environmentally relevant wavelengths of UV light are the main areas in the mechanistic studies. The aims of this work are to provide rapid tests of radiation sensitivity that can be used in a predictive testing setting for cancer predisposition and radiotherapy. In addition we aim to identify novel targets for radiosensitisation and radioprotection.