How do cells faithfully inherit a complete set of chromosomes during every cell division? We are studying the mechanisms that govern chromosome segregation during the cell cycle. Our focus is on the kinetochore, the protein complex that binds to microtubules. We study the regulation of kinetochore assembly and function, and the mechanisms that establish the specialized chromatin structure at centromeres. Recently, we have developed two ways to purify kinetochores and are now conducting biophysical and structural studies to complement the genetics and cell biology in the lab.
