Understanding how rapidly changing centromeres affect reproduction in mammals
R35 Investigating rapidly evolving centromeres and their role in the reproductive isolation in mammals
This research explores how fast-evolving parts of our chromosomes, called centromeres, contribute to differences between species and may impact reproduction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11120829 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our genetic material contains special regions called centromeres that are constantly changing and evolving. These changes can lead to differences between groups of animals, eventually causing them to become separate species and unable to reproduce with each other. This project uses advanced genetic tools and studies different types of house mice to understand how these rapidly evolving centromeres create functional differences. We aim to uncover how these genetic variations contribute to the separation of species.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve human patients, but its findings could eventually inform those experiencing infertility or chromosomal abnormalities.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in a human clinical trial would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could help us better understand the genetic causes of reproductive problems and chromosomal disorders in humans by revealing fundamental mechanisms of evolution and inheritance.
How similar studies have performed: The study proposes a novel approach to overcome previous challenges in studying repetitive centromeric regions, building on existing knowledge of genetic divergence.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thakur, Jitendra — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Thakur, Jitendra
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.