Understanding how chromosomes behave during reproduction
Molecular Control of Meiotic Chromosome Dynamics
This work explores how chromosomes are correctly sorted during the creation of sperm and egg cells, which is important for preventing birth defects and miscarriages.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11106043 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on a special cell division called meiosis to create sperm and egg cells, which each carry half the normal number of chromosomes. If there are mistakes during this process, the resulting offspring can have too many or too few chromosomes, leading to conditions like Down syndrome, miscarriages, and birth defects. This project aims to uncover the basic steps that ensure chromosomes are accurately sorted. We are focusing on how specific protein structures, called the synaptonemal complex, help guide chromosomes during this critical time. By combining detailed biochemical studies with observations in a simple organism called C. elegans, we hope to learn how these protein machines work together.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory research is relevant to individuals and families affected by birth defects, miscarriages, or infertility related to chromosome abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in a human clinical trial would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide fundamental insights into the causes of human miscarriages and birth defects, potentially leading to new ways to prevent them.
How similar studies have performed: Decades of genetic studies have identified many proteins involved in meiosis, and this project builds upon that knowledge to understand how these proteins function together.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Yumi — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kim, Yumi
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.