معرفی
Dr. Monica Colaiácovo is a Professor of Genetics at Harvard Medical School's Department of Genetics within the Blavatnik Institute. She serves as Associate Director of the Biological & Biomedical Sciences (BBS) Program and leads an active research laboratory focused on meiosis and reproductive biology. Her work is conducted at the New Research Building, Room 334, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA.
Dr. Colaiácovo's research investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying germline maintenance and accurate chromosome inheritance during meiosis. Her laboratory applies combined genetic, molecular, cytological and biochemical approaches using C. elegans as a model system. Key research areas include: understanding faithful meiotic chromosome inheritance mechanisms; exploring meiotic chromosome dynamics and post-translational modifications; investigating chromatin landscape regulators in germline maintenance; and identifying meiotic pathways affected by environmental toxicants. The lab has made significant contributions to understanding synaptonemal complex assembly, DNA double-strand break repair, and the effects of chemicals like BPA and DEET on reproductive health.
Her recent publications reveal concerning effects of common chemicals on reproductive biology, with notable 2024 work on DEET's impact on meiosis receiving widespread media attention. The lab's research demonstrates how environmental exposures disrupt chromosome segregation, leading to infertility and birth defects. Current work focuses on high-throughput screening of environmental toxicants and developing protective strategies like Coenzyme Q10 to counteract chemical effects.
Dr. Colaiácovo has successfully mentored numerous graduate students to completion of their PhD theses, including Ayana Henderson (2024), Altendorfer (2020), and Cuenca (2019). Her laboratory maintains active collaborations across Harvard Medical School and has developed innovative screening platforms for environmental toxicants. Current lab members include Research Associate Laura Ivon Lascarez Lagunas and graduate students Brianna Diaz-Pacheco and Gabrielle Webb.
The Colaiácovo lab operates within Harvard Medical School's Department of Genetics, utilizing advanced imaging and genomic techniques in their C. elegans research. The laboratory participates in departmental retreats and has won multiple poster awards. They maintain strong connections with the Boston Area Worm Meetings and contribute to the broader C. elegans research community through reagent sharing and collaborative science.
