Proper segregation of maternal and paternal chromosomes (homologs) during meiosis is critical for ensuring genome stability in the next generation and preventing reproductive complications like infertility. However, our understanding of the mechanisms regulating homolog segregation in humans are incomplete since meiosis only occurs in a subset of specialized cells, making it difficult to study.

Our lab employs moth model systems to investigate meiosis-specific modes of kinetochore formation. Kinetochores are large protein complexes that facilitates chromosome segregation. Using cytological approaches, we have found that moths form kinetochores along their entire chromosomes during mitosis (general cell division) but restrict kinetochores to chromosome centers during meiosis. We are working on elucidating how one system can employ multiple models of kinetochore assembly, which could provide a basis for treatment for human infertility.