Mark Birch-Machin - Overview

My research group focuses on the cutaneous response to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) and the molecular genetics of skin cancer and skin cancer susceptibility. Specific areas of research are:

• Mitochondria and UVR; in particular the novel approach of using mitochondrial DNA, rather than nuclear DNA, as a biomarker of cumulative UVR exposure.
• Molecular genetics of skin cancer; in particular the role of mitochondrial DNA mutations in the development of human non-melanoma skin cancer.
• The therapeutic use of UVR in skin disease.
• The role of mitochondria in the therapeutic action of dithranol in psoriasis.
• The role of mitochondria in UV-induced oxidative stress.
• Melanocortin 1 receptor gene status and skin cancer
• Mitochondrial DNA and ageing.
• Mitochondrial DNA and cancer (e.g. prostate cancer).
• Sunscreen Testing