Irvine, Calif., August 6, 2024 — In a new study published in the Journal of Cell Biology, researchers from the UC Irvine Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences and UC San Diego, led by Assistant Professor Pablo Lara-Gonzalez and in collaboration with the lab of Professor Lee Bardwell and with Professor Arshad Desai, have uncovered the mechanisms behind the rapid cell divisions essential for early embryonic development. This discovery could pave the way for new treatments in developmental disorders and cancer.
Every organism begins life as a fertilized egg that undergoes countless cell divisions through a process known as mitosis. “These mitoses give rise to our tissues and organs by ensuring that the genomic content of the cell is accurately propagated across cell divisions,” explains Professor Lara-Gonzalez. The speed of these early mitoses is crucial for timely development, yet maintaining a balance between speed and accuracy is critical, as errors in mitosis can lead to embryo death. The study, using the model organism C. elegans, reveals how this balance is achieved.
The research shows that a protein called cyclin B3 accelerates the pace of mitosis, acting as a ‘gas pedal’ to drive rapid early embryonic cell divisions. In contrast, another protein, cyclin B1, acts as a ‘brake,’ ensuring that the divisions do not happen too quickly, which could result in errors that are detrimental to the embryo.
“Our findings illustrate a finely orchestrated process where cyclin B3 pushes the cell to divide quickly, while cyclin B1 ensures these divisions are safe and precise,” said Professor Lara-Gonzalez.
This research not only sheds light on a fundamental biological process but also has significant implications for health and disease treatment. Understanding these mechanisms could help scientists understand the origin of certain developmental disorders, as well as develop to therapies to target mitosis to slow or stop cancer growth.
About the University of California, Irvine Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences:
Recognized for its pioneering research and academic excellence, the Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences plays a crucial role in the university’s status among the nation’s top 10 public universities, as ranked by U.S. News & World Report. It offers a broad spectrum of degree programs in the biological sciences, fostering innovation and preparing students for leadership in research, education, medicine and industry. Nestled in a globally acclaimed and economically vibrant community, the school contributes to the university’s impact as Orange County’s largest employer and a significant economic contributor. Through its commitment to exploring life’s complexities, the Dunlop School embodies the UCI legacy of innovation and societal impact. For more on the Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences, visit https://www.bio.uci.edu/.