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Robert Anthony Marciniak, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

UT Health San Antonio

Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy

Research

Dr. Robert Marciniak's research centers on the basic biology of aging and cancer, emphasizing the interrelationship between the two. Initially we have taken a genetic approach, and have focused on the analysis of a progeriod disorder, Werner syndrome. 

Werner syndrome is a human autosomal recessive disorder characterized by symptoms suggestive of premature aging and a predisposition to cancer. 

Our analysis of the molecular defect that causes Werner syndrome has led to the study of its involvement in telomere processing. We are currently investigating the role that the Werner syndrome helicase (WRN) may play in telomere maintenance and how the loss of the function of this protein and dysfunctional telomere processing - can lead to both symptoms of premature aging and increased cancer incidence.