IRIC - Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer

Published on septembre 21, 2011

The NSERC funds two IRIC research projects

Principal Investigators Vincent Archambault and Amy Maddox received funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Both projects funded under the discovery program aim to improve our understanding of cell division and offer excellent student training opportunities in biological sciences research, in complimentary fields such as cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry and microscopy. In addition, technology developed as part of these projects will be useful for the study of other, poorly understood aspects of cell division regulation.
To grow and survive, all living organisms must be capable of cell reproduction. Cell division is a complex process that is essential for cell reproduction or reparation.

Vincent Archambault will receive a total of $150,000 for his project entitled Molecular and functional characterization of the spindle matrix in drosophila. Proper chromosome segregation is important for the maintenance of cellular genetic integrity. During cell division, chromosomes bind to the mitotic spindle which, only a few years ago, was thought to be a structure consisting of microtubules with some accessory proteins. Although recent work has shown that these microtubules are assisted by a matrix which surrounds and mechanically supports the spindle and is involved in its function, very little is known about the molecular composition, function and regulation of this matrix.

For her part, Amy Maddox will receive $180,000 for her project entitled Analysis of cell division and tissue biogenesis in situ. During cell division, a cell grows, copies its DNA, places the copies at two ends of the cell, and pinches in the middle.  The project focuses on understanding how the cell is pinched in half. This is accomplished with a structure called the contractile ring, which operates like a purse string, using the same cellular chemicals that drive muscle contraction. Most of the work on cell division has been done with early embryos, yeasts and cultured cells that live on glass or plastic. Researchers in this project will attempt to understand the special requirements of cell division within an intact tissue such as skin. It is expected that cell division in the context of a tissue will have different requirements than in isolated cells and early embryos. Therefore, the work undertaken in this project will help to understand the true mechanism of cell division within our bodies.

The announcement was made by the Honorable Maxime Bernier, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism): “Our government is investing in the people and ideas that will produce tomorrow’s breakthroughs in order to keep Canada’s economy growing and create new jobs. This research will improve the quality of life of Canadians, while helping universities develop, attract and retain leading scientists and engineers.”
Guy Breton, Université de Montréal Rector spoke about the importance of supporting scientific research, particularly in the areas of fundamental research “Our prosperity depends on research. By supporting researchers in fundamental sciences, the NSERC’s funding program acts as a catalyst in the creation of new knowledge. This knowledge will enrich our graduate students’ training and will allow to establish new partnerships and to develop new research projects. The program is a precious gem envied by our international colleagues and that helps support excellence in research and innovation in Canada.”