XSBuilder_1: Rebuilding interphase nuclei into mitotic chromosomes

About XSBuilder

XSBuilder is an
ERC Synergy Grant project funded by the European Research Council.
The project aims to understand how cells transform interphase nuclei into mitotic chromosomes during cell division.

Scientific challenge

Although mitosis has been studied for more than 140 years, the mechanisms by which compact mitotic chromosomes are built from active interphase chromatin remain only partially understood.

Integrated approach

XSBuilder combines advanced imaging, genome-wide chromatin mapping, cryo-electron tomography, proteomics, image analysis and computational modelling.

Collaborative vision

The project brings together leading expertise in chromosome biology, structural biology, genomics, proteomics, microscopy and computational analysis.

XSBuilder will study chromosome formation across different scales, from individual nucleosomes to whole chromosomes, and over time with minute-by-minute precision.

By combining complementary methods and perspectives, the partners will work together to generate new tools, data and biological insights into one of the most dynamic processes in the cell cycle.

Learn more about XSBuilder

Beneficiaries

RoleResearcherInstitutionCountryLink
CoordinatorProf. Ohad MedaliaUniversity of ZurichSwitzerlandWebsite
PartnerProf. William EarnshawUniversity of EdinburghUnited KingdomWebsite
PartnerProf. Job DekkerUniversity of Massachusetts Chan Medical School / Howard Hughes Medical InstituteUnited StatesWebsite
Partner Organisation (no PI)Prof. José María CarazoNational Centre for Biotechnology / CNB-CSICSpainWebsite
SubcontractorProf. Juri RappsilberTechnische Universität BerlinGermanyWebsite