During cell division, chromosomes are duplicated and separated so that one copy of each chromosome is inherited by each of the two emerging daughter cells. Correct distribution of chromosomes requires high accuracy and defects in this process can cause aberrant distribution of chromosomes and facilitate cancer development. By analyzing the structure of the protein responsible for chromosome separation, an international team, led by Andreas Boland from the department of molecular biology, has shed light on the mechanisms controlling this essential player in cell division.

The article was published in the journal Nature, on July 21st 2021.

Check out the UNIGE press release.

Représentation des complexes séparase-sécurine et séparase-CCC, avec représentation artistique de l’ADN en arrière-plan.