Mary Coolbaugh-Murphy
Papers
1
Total Citations
29
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About
Mary Coolbaugh-Murphy is a pioneering molecular biologist whose work has fundamentally advanced the detection and quantification of somatic mutations. Her primary research focuses on microsatellite instability, DNA repair mechanisms, and the molecular origins of cancer and aging. Her landmark 2004 paper, "Estimating mutant microsatellite allele frequencies in somatic cells by small-pool PCR," introduced a highly sensitive method for measuring rare mutant alleles, overcoming the limitations of bulk-cell analysis. This technique, which has garnered 29 citations, enabled unprecedented precision in studying how mutations accumulate in normal and diseased tissues. Coolbaugh-Murphy’s contributions have been instrumental in understanding the role of microsatellite mutations in Lynch syndrome and other hereditary cancers, providing a critical tool for early detection and risk assessment. Her work bridges fundamental DNA biology with clinical application, offering researchers a robust platform to explore mutation dynamics. Through her innovative small-pool PCR approach, she has illuminated the subtle, early events that drive genomic instability, making her a key figure in the field of somatic mutagenesis and its implications for human health.
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Top Papers
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