Human DNA can be modified or damaged in a variety of ways that can alter its sequence and potentially change the information that it encodes, from UV radiation to chemicals in our own bodies. One way the body can accurately copy damaged DNA is through a process called translesion DNA synthesis, which involves a complex of proteins called Rad6/Rad18. Assistant Professor of Chemistry Mark Hedglin investigated how the Rad6/Rad18 protein complex moves along filaments produced by a type of DNA replication factor during translesion DNA synthesis. This new insight could have important implications for cancer treatments, as dysfunction of this protein complex has been linked to several cancers and complications with chemotherapy.