A13 - Elucidate the regulatory cascade controlling mitochondrial fission in mitosis
Valentina Piano
Institute of Human Genetics - CMMC Research Building
University of Cologne
E-Mail: Valentina.Piano@uk-koeln.de
Phone: 0221 - 478 89523
For more information and contact please visit the PIANO LAB
Abstract
Mitochondrial dynamics play a crucial role in numerous cellular functions and defects are associated with multiple disorders. Project A13 seeks to elucidate the signalling cascade initiating mitochondrial fragmentation and segregation during cell division, a fundamental yet almost unexplored cellular process. The project aims to shed light on the molecular mechanisms regulating mitochondrial fission in mitosis using a combination of biochemical and cellular assays, in particular focusing on protein-protein interactions and post-translational modifications regulating the activity of Dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1). This research will uncover possible consequences of defective mitochondrial dynamics on proper chromosome segregation and cell cycle progression.
Recent project-related publications
Chen C*, Piano V*, Alex A, Han SJY, Huis In 't Veld PJ, Roy B, Fergle D, Musacchio A, Joglekar AP (2023). The structural flexibility of MAD1 facilitates the assembly of the Mitotic Checkpoint Complex. Nat. Commun. 14:1529. DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37235-z.
Piano V#, Alex A, Stege P, Maffini S, Stoppiello GA, Huis in ’t Veld PJ, Vetter IR, Musacchio A# (2021). CDC20 assists its catalytic incorporation in the mitotic checkpoint complex. Science 371:67-71.
Zilio E, Piano V#, Wirth B# (2022). Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 23. DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810878.
# corresponding authors