Final Activity Report Summary - SPINDLE DYNAMICS (Understanding the dynamics of cell division)
The SPINDLE DYNAMICS network integrated groups working on various aspects of cell division. It brought together groups working on different model organisms and using different technologies. This allowed an interdisciplinary perspective on this complex research topic. The network focussed especially on the investigation of dynamic processes occurring in spindles during cell division. The network studied this in cultured human cells, in Drosophila, in yeast, in Xenopus egg extract and in vitro with purified proteins. Proteomic and genetic approaches were combined with cell biological, biochemical and biophysical approaches.
One especially succeessful aspect of the network was the integration of chemical biology into the investigation of the mechano-chemical network of the spindle resulting in several joint publications. Important outcomes of the research undertaken by the network were a better understanding of kinetochore functioning, a better understanding of regulating processes dependent on various mitotic kinases, a better understanding of the functioning of molecular motors and their role for spindle function.
This was made possible by the development of several novel light microscopy based assays by several network labs. The regular annual meeting of the network were always highlights because they allowed the PhD students and postdocs to present their results to collaborators and to get input through discussions. These meetings also opened up new collaborations, facilitated the exchange of reagents and training of PhD students and postdocs.
One especially succeessful aspect of the network was the integration of chemical biology into the investigation of the mechano-chemical network of the spindle resulting in several joint publications. Important outcomes of the research undertaken by the network were a better understanding of kinetochore functioning, a better understanding of regulating processes dependent on various mitotic kinases, a better understanding of the functioning of molecular motors and their role for spindle function.
This was made possible by the development of several novel light microscopy based assays by several network labs. The regular annual meeting of the network were always highlights because they allowed the PhD students and postdocs to present their results to collaborators and to get input through discussions. These meetings also opened up new collaborations, facilitated the exchange of reagents and training of PhD students and postdocs.