Understanding Cell Division and Its Link to Cancer
ESCRT and MIT Complexes in Cytokinesis
This research explores how cells complete their division, focusing on how errors in this process might contribute to cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11094073 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Cells must accurately divide to create new cells, a process that includes faithfully copying their genetic material and then physically separating into two distinct daughter cells. This project focuses on the final separation step, called abscission, which is carried out by specialized cellular machinery. When this separation process is faulty, it can lead to DNA damage and is strongly connected to the development of various cancers. Researchers are investigating how specific cellular components work together to ensure proper cell division and how their malfunction contributes to cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but future studies stemming from this work could benefit patients with various types of cancer.
Not a fit: Patients whose cancers are not linked to errors in cell division may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational research could uncover new targets for therapies aimed at preventing or treating cancers by correcting errors in cell division.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds on previous discoveries about cell division mechanisms and introduces novel aspects, such as a newly identified cellular organelle.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sundquist, Wesley I. — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Sundquist, Wesley I.
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.