Investigating how centromeric DNA and proteins evolve and affect chromosome behavior
Official title: Testing the functional consequences of rapid centromeric DNA and protein evolution
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10916439 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain DNA and proteins work together during cell division in mice, especially when different species mate, to help us understand why some hybrids might have trouble reproducing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $105,680 |
| NIH project number | 5K99GM152835-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916439 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing reproductive issues or those with genetic conditions related to chromosome segregation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have reproductive challenges or chromosome-related disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the evolution of centromeric DNA and proteins, which are crucial for proper chromosome segregation during cell division. By examining how these components interact and evolve, the study aims to understand the genetic conflicts that arise between centromeric DNA and proteins. The approach involves fertilizing mouse eggs with sperm from different species to observe how variations in centromeric DNA affect the recruitment of essential proteins. This could provide insights into reproductive isolation and fertility issues in hybrids.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of reproductive challenges and chromosome-related disorders, potentially improving fertility treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While the centromere drive hypothesis is a novel approach, similar studies on genetic conflicts and chromosome behavior have shown promising results in understanding reproductive biology.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lamelza, Piero — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Lamelza, Piero
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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.