Johannes Hagen

Johannes focuses on identifying the genetic pathways that ensure the maintenance of a functional mitochondrial genome, particularly under conditions of genotoxic stress. To uncover novel components of the mitochondrial quality control machinery, he utilizes systematic genetic screens and classical yeast genetics to delineate the underlying genetic networks and functional roles of newly identified factors. This genetic approach is integrated with systems-level methodologies, such as mtDNA sequencing and proteomic profiling, to resolve how the cell reacts in response to mitochondrial genome instability. His work identifies how cytosolic lipid homeostasis supports mitochondrial DNA quality control, resolving the mechanistic principles that safeguard the integrity of the genome across generations.