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01.09.2005

A new mechanism for asymmetric cell division

Jürgen Knoblich and his team were able to identify a novel mechanism which controls asymmetric cell division and stem cell differentiation.

Using advanced live imaging technology, the scientists were able to observe dividing cells in vivo. They found that, apart from a well known process involving unequally distributed proteins, there is at least one other mechanism by which cells can divide asymmetrically. This process is associated with a temporary reduction of recycling endosomes. The work, which was carried out in fly and mammalian cells, was published in Cell on September 9, 2005.