Understanding how cells divide and the role of kinetochores in cancer and birth defects
Mechanisms of Kinetochore-Microtubule Attachment and Regulation
This study is looking at how tiny structures on chromosomes help cells divide properly, and it aims to find out how mistakes in this process can cause problems like birth defects and cancer, with the hope of discovering new ways to treat cancer.
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-11031937 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which kinetochores, structures on chromosomes, attach to microtubules during cell division. It aims to understand how errors in this process can lead to aneuploidy, which is linked to birth defects and cancer. The researchers will explore how kinetochores regulate these attachments and how defects in this system can create vulnerabilities in cancer cells that may be targeted for therapy. By using advanced techniques, they hope to uncover new insights that could lead to improved cancer treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers associated with aneuploidy or those at risk of birth defects due to chromosomal abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients with cancers that do not involve aneuploidy or those without chromosomal abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new cancer therapies that specifically target vulnerabilities in cancer cells caused by kinetochore defects.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting cancer vulnerabilities related to chromosomal defects, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
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.