# Replacement of Widefield Imaging System

> **NIH NIH R01** · CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY · 2021 · $248,975

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
The central aim of the parent grant is to identify roles of the proteasome along meiotic chromosomes. The
26S proteasome is the main site of protein degradation in all eukaryotes. It is a compartmentalized,
multicomponent protease that resides both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Cytoplasmic proteasome
functions in eliminating regulatory and misfolded proteins have been recognized for a long time. Functions
of the proteasome in the nucleus are much less understood. We recently discovered that during meiosis I,
the 26S proteasome is recruited in an evolutionarily conserved manner to chromosomes where it controls
homolog pairing, synapsis and recombination. Using a combination of high-resolution microscopy, genetic
and proteomic approaches, we are pursuing three aims that build on this discovery: First, we are using
tightly controlled conditional alleles to systematically characterize roles during meiosis of different
proteasome components. Second, we are identifying substrates of the proteasome relevant to
chromosome pairing and recombination, providing insights into a class of molecules that need to be
degraded to ensure normal meiotic progression. Third, we are identifying determinants for proteasome
recruitment to chromosomes. Meiotic chromosome segregation defects in absence of a functional
proteasome emphasize the importance for reproductive health of a better understanding of chromosome-
associated proteolysis. Our analysis is also relevant to cancer therapy where proteasome inhibitors have
become increasingly important. Many of our approaches involve high resolution and live-cell imaging in
the model eukaryote budding yeast. In this supplement proposal, we are requesting funds for an advanced
high-resolution, live imaging system as replacement for our aging current microscope. Our current system
has given us valuable insights but has become unreliable and is near the end of its lifetime. A state-of-the-
art imaging system will enable us to maintain and further enhance a high impact research program into
mechanisms of chromosome transmission.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10388921
- **Project number:** 3R01GM125800-04S1
- **Recipient organization:** CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Valentin Boerner
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $248,975
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2018-01-22 → 2022-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10388921

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10388921, Replacement of Widefield Imaging System (3R01GM125800-04S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-02 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10388921. Licensed CC0.

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