How cells copy their DNA and split into two
DNA Replication and Cytokinesis.
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-11162385
This work looks at how a key protein called Orc6 helps cells copy their DNA and divide, which is important for people with certain inherited growth and developmental conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11162385 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses fruit flies engineered to carry the human Orc6 protein so researchers can see how changes in Orc6 affect DNA copying and cell division. Scientists solved the shape of the human Orc6 protein and introduce specific human mutations into the fly model to mimic disease. They watch how these mutations disrupt the steps that load the DNA-replication machinery and the final splitting of cells (cytokinesis). The goal is to pinpoint how Orc6 problems cause developmental disorders like Meier-Gorlin syndrome so future work can target those mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Meier-Gorlin syndrome or related inherited primordial dwarfism disorders, and families willing to share genetic information or samples, would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Patients without Orc6-related genetic issues or those looking for immediate treatments are unlikely to gain direct clinical benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify the root causes of certain genetic growth and developmental disorders and point toward better diagnostics or targets for future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies in fruit flies and structural analyses of human Orc6 have already shown roles for Orc6 in DNA replication and cytokinesis, so this work builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHESNOKOV, IGOR N — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: CHESNOKOV, IGOR N
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Basal Cell Nevus Syndrome