The Genetics of Cell Division in C. elegans

Cell division plays a crucial role in the development of life. The Bowerman lab focuses on the cytoskeletal development and regulation in C. elegans embryos. We use genetic screening for lin-2 and temperature sensitivity to select a viable set of mutants suitable for phenotypic analyses. DIC video microscopy documents time-lapse videos of mitosis in these mutant embryos. Strains with consistent mutant phenotypes, referred to as high penetrance, are submitted for further study. Mutants are categorized into phenotypic classes including osmotic sensitivity, P1 delays, meiotic mutants, and specific cell division defects. Following categorization of mutants, we will perform tests for dominance and complementation to verify if the allele already exists in our database. Complementation tests are not necessary for mutant strains with multiple phenotypic defects. However, if complementation test are performed and show that the allele does not already exist, DNA from the strain is isolated and sequenced in order to identify a new gene in the C. elegans genome. Ultimately, we are looking for the genes necessary for cell division. The study of this species can help reveal valuable infor- mation about the genetics of cell division in other organisms, particularly in humans.