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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

The machinery that helps divide your cells self-organizes like an active liquid crystal

Researchers at the Flatiron Institute and their collaborators applied an active liquid crystal theory to understand how chromosomes are separated during cell division. The study found that the theory largely succeeds in predicting how spindles self-organize, using a combination of light microscopy and electron microscopy data.

SourceSimons Foundation·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2026

12,000-year old stones may be very early evidence of wheel-like technology

A study published in PLOS ONE suggests that 12,000-year-old stones from Israel may have been used as spindle whorls to turn fibers into yarn, representing a key milestone in the development of rotational tools including wheels. The stones feature a circular shape with a central hole, allowing them to rotate faster and more efficiently.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateNov 13, 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

First atomic-scale 'movie' of microtubules under construction, a key process for cell division

For the first time, scientists have visualized the process of microtubule formation in human cells at an atomic scale. The study reveals how microtubules are triggered to form during cell division, providing new insights into their role in cellular biology and potential therapeutic applications.

SourceCentro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO)·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 2024

How the genome is packed into chromosomes that can be faithfully moved during cell division

The Gerlich Group at IMBA found that histone acetylation establishes a sharp surface boundary on chromosomes, resisting microtubule perforation. Chromatin phase separation and DNA looping by condensin cooperates to build mitotic chromosomes with unique physical properties.

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

Live imaging puts new light on stem cell division

A team of researchers at the University of Oregon has made a groundbreaking discovery about stem cell division, finding that cortical proteins help position a cleavage furrow in the right location. This new mechanism has important implications for understanding how stem cells divide to produce unique cell types.

SourceUniversity of Oregon·JournalNature·DateSep 1, 2010

Scientists deconstruct cell division

Researchers have identified two proteins, dynein and Nudel, as crucial for regulating the assembly of the spindle matrix during mitosis. This finding broadens our understanding of how cells control critical events during division. Understanding spindle assembly is essential to comprehend cell fate choices and development.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateFeb 8, 2009

A molecular motor's key role in cell birth

Cornell University researchers reveal molecular motor Myo2p's crucial role in guiding the mitotic spindle during cell division. The study sheds light on an essential mechanism in new cell formation and highlights potential consequences of failures in molecular motor function.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature·DateAug 30, 2000