Understanding how cells divide correctly to maintain genetic stability
Official title: Mechanisms of spindle organization for cell division
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10941078 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cells make sure they divide correctly, focusing on a part of the cell called the spindle midzone, to help us understand how to prevent problems like cancer that can happen when cell division goes wrong.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $396,760 |
| NIH project number | 1R01GM155215-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10941078 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for cancers associated with aneuploidy or those with genetic predispositions to cell division errors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cell division or aneuploidy may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that ensure cells divide accurately, focusing on the role of a structure called the spindle midzone. By examining how specific proteins, particularly AuroraB kinase, are activated and localized during cell division, the study aims to uncover the fundamental processes that prevent errors in cell division, which can lead to conditions like cancer. The research employs advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy to visualize and analyze these cellular processes at a microscopic level. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to prevent or treat diseases associated with cell division errors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing cancer by ensuring proper cell division.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding cell division mechanisms, but this specific approach to studying the spindle midzone is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Subramanian, Radhika — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Subramanian, Radhika
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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.