Understanding how human centromeres are formed and maintained during cell division
Mechanisms of epigenetic assembly, maintenance and propagation of human centromeres
This study is looking at how a special part of our DNA, called centromeres, helps make sure our cells divide correctly, which is important for preventing issues like cancer or birth defects, and it could help us understand these problems better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11085230 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the assembly and maintenance of human centromeres, which are crucial for accurate chromosome distribution during cell division. The team focuses on a specific histone variant, CENP-A, that plays a key role in centromere function. By utilizing advanced techniques like ChIP-sequencing, they aim to create a detailed epigenomic map of human centromeres, which could provide insights into various conditions related to cell division and genetic stability. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how errors in these processes can lead to diseases such as cancer or birth defects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions linked to chromosomal abnormalities, such as certain cancers or genetic disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to chromosomal function or those who do not have any genetic disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for diagnosing and treating conditions related to chromosome mismanagement, such as cancer and genetic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding centromere function and its implications for diseases, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nechemia-Arbely, Yael — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Nechemia-Arbely, Yael
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.