How cells keep the right number of chromosomes when they divide
Mechanisms of Kinetochore-Microtubule Attachment and Regulation
Looking at how the cell's division machinery keeps chromosomes at the correct number to help prevent birth defects and cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11292417 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project examines the kinetochore, the cellular machine that links chromosomes to the fibers that pull them apart, to understand how correct attachments are made and regulated. Researchers use human cells and molecular tools to study key proteins, including the Aurora kinases, that control attachment strength and error correction. The team also explores how cancer-related changes lead to kinetochore defects and create weaknesses in tumor cells. Results aim to point toward potential targets for therapies or better understanding of aneuploidy-related birth defects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research would be most relevant to people with cancers characterized by abnormal chromosome numbers or those willing to donate tumor or blood samples for laboratory analysis.
Not a fit: People with health issues unrelated to chromosome number errors, or those seeking immediate treatment, are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this lab-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for cancer drugs and improve understanding of chromosome-related birth defects.
How similar studies have performed: Related lab studies have linked kinetochore proteins and Aurora kinases to cancer and some Aurora kinase inhibitors have entered clinical testing, but results so far have been mixed and the area remains under active investigation.
Where this research is happening
Fort Collins, United States
- Colorado State University — Fort Collins, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deluca, Jennifer G — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Deluca, Jennifer G
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.