Prof. Iain M Cheeseman

The Cheeseman Lab studies chromosome segregation during mitosis requires a large proteinaceous structure termed the kinetochore to generate attachments between chromosomal DNA and spindle microtubule polymers. The kinetochore is composed of more than 80 different proteins which function together to direct kinetochore assembly, generate dynamic connections with spindle microtubules, and regulate chromosome segregation. The lab is interested in understanding the molecular basis of kinetochore function in human cells. We use parallel biochemical and cell biological approaches to examine kinetochore composition, structure, organization, regulation, and how kinetochore proteins function to achieve proper chromosome segregation.

The Lab uses a combination of biochemistry, cell biology, proteomics (and any other approach that we can come up with) to understand key questions related to kinetochore function and chromosome segregation.