Ipl1p encodes a protein kinase that phosphorylates the kinetochore component Ndc10p, and we are currently characterizing the Ipl1p-dependent phosphorylation of Ndc10p in vivo and in vitro. In addition to regulating kinetochore function, Ipl1p is also required for the spindle assembly checkpoint that prevents cells with spindle damage from exiting the cell cycle. We are currently determining how Ipl1p responds to spindle damage and where it acts in the checkpoint pathway. We are also studying the regulation of Ipl1p during the cell cycle and identifying and characterizing additional Ipl1p substrates and their roles in chromosome segregation. We are developing both in vivo and in vitro assays to study these questions and to ultimately learn more about the process of chromosome segregation.
Sister chromatid cohesion in mitosis.
Current Opinion in Genetics and Development. The conserved protein kinase Ipl1 regulates microtubule binding to kinetochores in budding yeast. Genes and Development. The yeast centrin, cdc31p, and the interacting protein kinase, Kic1p, are required for cell integrity. Journal of Cell Biology.