Understanding how cells divide accurately
Official title: Molecular Analysis of Kinetochore Function
Funded at Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Res · NIH-11076305 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of our cells work together to make sure they divide correctly, which is important for keeping our bodies healthy, and it's using human cells to understand these processes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Res NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2018 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $793,650 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM126930-08 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076305 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cell division abnormalities, including certain cancers and congenital malformations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable, non-dividing cells or those not affected by cell division-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms that ensure accurate cell division, focusing on the kinetochore and the mitotic spindle. By using human cells, the researchers will explore how these structures interact and function during chromosome segregation. The study employs advanced techniques such as functional genetics, protein localization, and affinity purification to analyze the dynamics of these cellular components. The goal is to create a detailed model of how these proteins work together to maintain the integrity of cell division.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for conditions related to cell division errors, such as cancer and congenital defects.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding cell division mechanisms, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
-
Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Res
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheeseman, Iain Mcpherson — Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Res
- Study coordinator: Cheeseman, Iain Mcpherson
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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.