University of Zagreb researchers explain mitotic spindle regulation

Researchers from the Faculty of Science at the University of Zagreb, including Shane A. Fiorenze and Nenad Pavin, have published a study in Nature Communications explaining how cells regulate the length of the mitotic spindle. This structure, composed of microtubule protein tubes, is essential for the accurate distribution of chromosomes during cell division.

The study addresses a long-standing biological puzzle regarding how the spindle maintains a consistent size despite the continuous renewal of its components. By combining theoretical modeling from Zagreb with experimental data from the University of Geneva, the team resolved previously contradictory experimental results. Their new model explains how seemingly opposing observations regarding microtubule movement speeds and spindle length can both be correct based on the coordination of processes at both ends of the microtubules.

This research is part of the ANEUPLOIDY project, an ERC Synergy project valued at 10 million euros, which investigates the causes of incorrect chromosome distribution in both healthy and diseased tissues.