Michèle Pamela Calos

Associate Professor
Department of Genetics

• B.A. Zoology, Oxford University, Oxford, England
  
  

  Ph.D. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Advisor, Wally Gilbert.
  
  

  Postdoctoral research, Biologie Moleculaire, Université de Genève, Geneva, Switzerland. Advisor, Jeffrey H. Miller.
  
  

Scientific Interests

I am interested in DNA, particularly chromosomes and how the coding information of DNA is organized as the genetic material. I am interested in modeling chromosomes and in finding ways to precisely engineer them.

The lab initially pioneered the development of extrachromosomal replicating shuttle vectors for use in studying mutation in mammalian cells. In that work, we used shuttle vectors that replicated using viral origins of replication from SV40, EBV, and other viruses. From there, we developed extrachromosomal elements that could replicate using human genomic sequences. We used such vectors to learn more about DNA replication in human cells and carried out comparative studies in lower eukaryotes.

Our current work focuses on developing ways to introduce DNA long-term into mammalian cells for use in gene therapy. Our strategies include use of stable extrachromosomal vectors and development of a system to mediate site-specific integration of incoming DNA into the chromosomes. The current focus is on further refinement of the site-specific integration system and application of the system to a wide variety of gene therapy targets.

Teaching

I teach in the course "Stem Cells and Gene Therapy", M&I 231, each spring, focusing on new technology for gene therapy.


If you have any questions or comments, please email me at calos@stanford.edu.