Cornell University

Natalie Nannas
Asst. Professor of Biology,
Hamilton College

Faithful segregation of genetic material, packaged into chromosomes, is essential for an organism’s survival and successful reproduction. Chromosomes must be correctly separated during cell division, including in the meiotic divisions that produce gametes. Our group investigates the spindle machinery and mechanisms that govern the meiotic segregation of chromosomes in the model system Zea mays (maize). Using live imaging, we have discovered that the assembly of the spindle machinery used to pull chromosomes apart is highly error-prone. Cells frequently formed multipolar spindles during pro-metaphase, and these incorrect spindles were re-organized before the metaphase-anaphase transition. We also observed unusual chromosome movements on the spindle that compensate for spindle positioning within the gamete cell. The frequency of substantial errors in assembly and their subsequent correction before anaphase suggests an active and essential role for the spindle assembly checkpoint in the progression of maize meiosis.

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