How egg cells use actin to keep chromosomes in order
Actin-based mechanisms of chromosome segregation in mammalian oocytes and embryos
This research looks at how actin filaments in egg cells help keep chromosomes balanced to lower the risk of embryo chromosome errors that can cause miscarriages or developmental problems for people trying to get pregnant.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11174599 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use advanced live-cell microscopy and fast protein-degradation tools to watch how actin filaments assemble on the spindle in mammalian oocytes and early embryos. They will study how these actin structures help chromosomes attach correctly to microtubules and prevent mis-segregation that leads to aneuploid embryos. The work combines imaging, biochemical assays, and targeted protein manipulation to map the molecules and steps that protect chromosome segregation. Findings are aimed at identifying biological checkpoints that could eventually reduce miscarriage and improve fertility treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who have experienced recurrent miscarriage, had embryos with chromosomal abnormalities, or are undergoing fertility treatments may be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose infertility is caused by non-chromosomal issues such as uterine structural problems, hormonal disorders, or isolated male-factor infertility are less likely to directly benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to ways to reduce embryo aneuploidy, potentially lowering miscarriage rates and improving outcomes for fertility treatments like IVF.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier lab discoveries, including the team's finding of spindle F-actin in oocytes, support this line of research but translating these findings to clinical treatments remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mogessie, Binyam — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Mogessie, Binyam
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.