Modeling mitosis

Alex Mogilner, Roy Wollman, Gul Civelekoglu-Scholey, Jonathan Scholey

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

The mitotic spindle is a fascinating protein machine that uses bipolar arrays of dynamic microtubules and many mitotic motors to coordinate the accurate segregation of sister chromatids. Here we discuss recent mathematical models and computer simulations that, in concert with experimental studies, help explain the molecular mechanisms by which the spindle machinery performs its crucial functions. We review current models of spindle assembly, positioning, maintenance and elongation; of chromosome capture and congression; and of the spindle assembly checkpoint. We discuss some limitations of the application of modeling to other aspects of mitosis and the feasibility of building more comprehensive system-level models.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)88-96
Number of pages9
JournalTrends in Cell Biology
Volume16
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 2006

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cell Biology

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