Understanding How Our Chromosomes Divide
Structure and Function of a Eukaryotic Centromere
This project explores how a special region on our chromosomes, called the centromere, helps them divide properly, which is vital for healthy cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044188 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are made of cells that constantly divide, and it's crucial that each new cell gets a complete set of chromosomes. This project aims to understand how a special part of the chromosome, called the centromere, ensures this perfect division. Researchers are using advanced computer models and detailed images of cells to study the physical structure of these centromeres. They want to see if the centromere acts like a 'bottlebrush' that helps chromosomes resist pulling forces during cell division, ensuring they separate correctly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation or recruitment for a clinical trial.
Not a fit: Patients looking for immediate treatment options or direct clinical interventions would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding this basic process could eventually lead to new ways to prevent or treat conditions caused by incorrect chromosome division, such as certain birth defects or cancers.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon decades of established cell biology and genetics research, proposing a new model to explain how centromeres function.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bloom, Kerry S — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Bloom, Kerry S
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.