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Researchers uncover the inside story on plant organ growth

A study by John Innes Centre researchers reveals that inner tissues play a crucial role in shaping plant organs, contradicting the widespread assumption that external layers control growth. By analyzing cell division orientation and gene editing techniques, they discovered genes affecting stem thickness in Arabidopsis.

SourceJohn Innes Centre·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 8, 2026

Scientists reveal how dividing cells precisely trigger spindle formation

Researchers discovered a step-by-step process underlying SPD-5 activation, which regulates where and when spindle fibers form in C. elegans. This finding provides insights into the fundamentals of cell division regulation and may lead to new treatments for diseases caused by incorrect chromosome segregation.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2026

How a cell doubles its DNA matters more than we thought

Researchers examined two mechanisms of whole genome duplication in cells, finding that cytokinesis failure leads to more stable and viable cells, while mitotic slippage results in uneven chromosome distribution and reduced viability. The study suggests targeting chromosome separation could help limit survival of abnormal cells.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 30, 2026

Unique characteristics of previously unexplored protein discovered

A research collaboration has uncovered a unique mechanism of crosstalk between microtubules and actin cytoskeleton during cell division, revealing characteristics of the previously unexplored protein FAM110A. This breakthrough finding enhances understanding of critical process relevant in developmental disorders and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateJul 16, 2024

Studying the intricacies of homologous recombination and abnormal chromosome bridges

A recent study investigated the relationship between RAD51 and FIGNL1, shedding light on the intricacies of homologous recombination. The results reveal that FIGNL1 is essential for proper chromosome separation after replication forks are dismantled, preventing abnormal chromosome bridges that can lead to genetic instability.

SourceKindai University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Unveiling the mysteries of cell division in embryos with timelapse photography

Researchers used medaka fish, CRISPR and new imaging techniques to study embryonic mitosis. They discovered unique spindles assemble in early embryos and found Ran-GTP plays a decisive role in spindle formation, which diminishes later in development. The study paves the way for further exploration of embryonic mitosis.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 24, 2024

Memories of mitosis: Molecular mechanism that detects defects during cell division could aid cancer treatment

Researchers discovered a protein complex that eliminates potentially harmful cells over time by measuring the duration of mitosis. The Mitotic Stopwatch Complex starts forming after prolonged mitosis and triggers cell arrest or death, providing new insights into cancer development.

Researchers clear the way for well-rounded view of cellular defects

A recent study has investigated how cells divide in fibrous environments, revealing the impact of extracellular matrix shape and fiber number on mitotic errors. By re-creating and studying lattice structures, researchers have gained a deeper understanding of cellular dynamics and its connection to disease biology.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 6, 2023

Targeting DNA bridges: HKU Biologists Uncover key to preserve genome integrity Enhancing the understanding of cancer development

A research team led by Dr Gary Ying Wai Chan has uncovered a new mechanism that ensures correct DNA segregation in cell division, preventing cancer development. RIF1 and protein phosphatase 1 play a crucial role in resolving ultrafine DNA bridges, which can lead to DNA damage and genome instability if not properly resolved.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalCell Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2023

New insights into centromere structure

Researchers at Osaka University used cryogenic electron microscopy to study the structural change of the centromere during cell division. The study revealed a complex interaction between proteins involved in cell division, providing new insights into the correct division of chromosomes.

SourceOsaka University·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2023

Crowning a quest into a very well-guarded secret: Structure of the kinetochore corona finally revealed

Researchers have deciphered the structure of the kinetochore corona, a complex protein assembly that plays a pivotal role in chromosome segregation. The study, published in The EMBO Journal, provides new insights into how this critical process is regulated and offers a framework for future studies on cell division.

SourceMax Planck Institute of Molecular Physiology·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2022

Mixing and matching yeast DNA

Researchers at Osaka University have identified distinct factors regulating crossover-type recombination at yeast centromeres and non-centromeres. The study suggests that centromeres are protected from chromosomal rearrangements due to specific proteins, ensuring DNA fidelity.

SourceOsaka University·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateSep 11, 2017

Some cells need a 'haircut' before duplicating

Researchers find that decapitation of primary cilia, a process linked to cellular duplication, is triggered by the presence of Inpp5e protein, which helps stabilize cilia. The study also reveals that wire-like structures formed in cilia contribute to decapitation, and that this process is essential for full cilia disassembly.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalCell·DateJan 12, 2017

DNA in 'unbiased' model curls both ways

Researchers at Rice University used computer simulations to study DNA's twisted-ladder form, finding that chromosomes can emerge with either right- or left-handed superhelices. The discovery could help explain how cells regulate gene expression and cell differentiation.

SourceRice University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 14, 2016

Slow stem cell division may cause small brains

Researchers at Duke University found that delayed neural stem cells can cause premature differentiation into neurons and increased cell death, leading to smaller brain development. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of microcephaly and its potential links to other neurodevelopmental disorders.

SourceDuke University·JournalNeuron·DateJan 7, 2016

Unraveling cell division

Researchers have found that Topo 2, an essential enzyme for chromosome separation, needs more time to untangle long chromosomes, which can lead to mutations and cancer. The study suggests that chromosome length affects the enzyme's action and highlights the importance of understanding cell division.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateSep 16, 2014