Roberto Bellelli

Roberto Bellelli, MD, PhD, is a Senior Lecturer and Group Leader whose research group within the Centre for Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology investigates the fundamental mechanisms governing DNA replication in mammalian cells and how their disruption leads to genomic instability and cancer.

Research Interests:
His laboratory focuses on deciphering the molecular underpinnings of DNA replication fidelity, with particular emphasis on the role of DNA polymerase epsilon (Polε) and its accessory factors (POLE3–POLE4) in maintaining both genetic and epigenetic stability. By integrating biochemical, cellular, and in-vivo modelling approaches, the group explores how defects in these processes contribute to replication stress, developmental abnormalities, and tumorigenesis. Key themes include:

• Mechanisms of replication fork protection and restart
• Synthetic lethal interactions involving Polε and DNA helicases such as RTEL1
• Chromatin assembly and histone chaperone functions during S-phase
• Therapeutic vulnerabilities revealed by PARP and ATR inhibitors in cancers with Polε defects

Funding & Support:
Dr Bellelli’s programme is supported by significant recent awards:

• MRC New Investigator Award (2023-2026), ~£630 000: Investigating novel mechanisms of genetic stability at the replication fork
• Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard Award (2023-2025), ~£100 000: Roles of DNA Polymerase Epsilon in genetic and epigenetic stability
• Barts Charity Seed Grant (2023-2024), ~£73 000: DNA Polymerase Epsilon as a therapeutic target and biomarker for PARP/ATR inhibitor sensitivity
• Barts Charity Grant (2020-2023): Roles of DNA Polymerase Epsilon in maintenance of genetic and epigenetic stability

Laboratory & Team:
As Group Leader, Dr Bellelli heads an active research team embedded within the Centre for Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations that bridge basic replication biology and translational cancer research.