Non-Fiction RRE

This article is based on a study done in the University of Massachusetts.  The researchers there studied the process of mitosis and why it goes wrong at times.  During mitosis the duplicated chromosomes are supposed to divide equally between two daughter cells.  However, in many cases that does not happen which leads to many problems.  The researchers found that in most cases the problems are due to incorrect interactions between chromosomes and spindle fibers.  Chromosomes must align perfectly on the spindle fibers.  Microtubule filaments make the spindle fibers.  The site of interaction between the microtubule filament and chromosomes are called kinetochores.  When the interaction is complete, Polar Ejection Force (PEF) pulls the chromosomes apart.  They found this defect in interaction is pretty common, occurring in almost 90% of cells.  When it occurs in somatic cells, either the cells die, or cancer develops.  When it occurs in gametes, there can be serious birth defects.  The research shows the strength of PEF is essential is proper cell division.

            This article was really interesting because it shows how commonly mistakes can occur during mitosis.  Our bodies are made up of billions of cells, so mitosis is very common.  It is scary to think that problems that fairly common can cause cancer in our body.  It also must be concerning for couples planning to have kids, and defects in egg or sperm cells can cause serious birth defects.  I hope the scientists find a way to prevent such inaccuracies during mitosis.