Understanding how cells ensure accurate chromosome division
Official title: Kinetochore Assembly and Regulation
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11112458 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how cells divide and make sure their chromosomes are properly separated, using yeast to understand the teamwork involved in this process, which could help us find new ways to treat cancer by learning how cancer cells take advantage of these mechanisms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $399,124 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM151191-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112458 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include adults diagnosed with cancers that involve chromosomal abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those under 21 years old may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind chromosome segregation during cell division, focusing on how kinetochores connect chromosomes to the spindle apparatus. By using the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism, the study aims to uncover the cooperative processes involved in kinetochore assembly and regulation. The findings could provide insights into how cancer cells manipulate these processes for uncontrolled growth, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. The research employs biochemical assays and genetic analysis to explore these cellular mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer treatments by targeting the mechanisms that allow cancer cells to divide uncontrollably.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in targeting chromosome segregation mechanisms in cancer cells, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Huilin — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Huilin
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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.