DNA, the basic unit of life, is usually packed in chromosomes, a thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein. Given how important they are, there are a host of mechanisms, checkpoints and cellular safeguards that exist in order to protect the integrity of chromosomes during cell division.
During the process of cell division, if the chromosomes do not get distributed among the daughter cells or the process of division of the chromatids does not proceed smoothly, the chances are that this might either cause Cell death or worse, the big C- Cancer.
A recent study in the University of California, Santa Cruz headed by Dr.William Sullivan, has discovered a miraculous mechanism wherein a DNA tether is created during the process, acts as a lifeline and keeps the broken fragment of the DNA connected to the chromosome. Generally during the mechanism of cell division, the chromosome is duplicated as to distribute it to the two new set of cells known as the daughter cells. The membrane of the nucleus breaks and the chromosome segregates to opposite sides of the cell, a new membrane forms and voila! We have two new cells. But in case of a faulty/broken chromosome, during the mechanism
as if a miracle, it so happens that the chromosome fragments don’t segregate, but instead get pulled in later just before the newly forming nuclear membrane closes. “The DNA tether seems to keep the nuclear envelope from closing, and then the chromosome fragment just glides right in at the last moment,” Dr.Sullivan said. This fragment that is pulled in later forms a “micronucleus” with its own membrane and resorts to extensive genetic rearrangements, which is reincorporated into chromosomes during the next cell division.“We are currently identifying the genes responsible for generating the DNA tether, which could be promising novel targets for the next generation of cancer therapies” concludes Dr.Sullivan.
As stated by the lead researcher of the study, the attempt to figure out this miraculous new mechanism might help us find better solutions or treatment methods to Cancer.
