The Genomics and Epigenomics of Centromere Function and Dysfunction

The centromere is the chromosomal locus at which the kinetochore is assembled and that drives chromosome movement during cell division. Abnormal centromere function is a hallmark of genome instability as observed in many birth defects, reproductive disorders, and diseases such as cancer. Defining how centromeres are organized and assembled is important for understanding principles of cell division, Mendelian inheritance and segregation distortion, species and chromosome evolution, human disease and for developing therapies and cures.

This inaugural, biennial GRC in Centromere Biology welcomes participants from across the globe, working in classical genetic model organisms and non-traditional/emerging model systems. The Centromere Biology GRC will include experts in cell visualization, structural biology, genetics and biochemistry, and chromatin biology, who all share a common interest in understanding centromere organization, assembly, and dynamics. The Centromere Biology GRC was conceived to include scientists whose research programs span many exciting and highly relevant areas in the field that are typically under-represented at other chromosome and centromere meetings. Such topics include, but are not limited to, genomics, comparative analyses, synthetic and mutant centromeres, and centromere behavior in disease states. The meeting is intended to create a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for junior scientists and students to present their work and exchange ideas through poster sessions and informal discussions. Short talks in each session will include those chosen from the abstracts.

The 2014 conference will focus on the following topics: de novo centromere assembly, centromere structure and maintenance, and unusual centromeric states. Major emphasis will be given to emerging genomic maps, comparative and functional studies, centromeric RNAs, and epigenetic mechanisms of centromere function.