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FUNDING PROGRAM FOR NEXT GENERATION WORLD-LEADING RESEARCHERS Project Title: Spatio-temporal regulation of cell polarity and cell shape during embryogenesis Name: Asako SUGIMOTO Institution: Tohoku University 1. Background of research For fertilized eggs to form complex animal structures, cells have to divide, move, and change their shapes in a coordinated manner. These dynamic cellular behaviors are programmed in the genome that contains ~20,000 genes inherited from parents. However, it is not fully understood when, where, and how these genes function and how they cooperate each other during animal development. 2. Research objectives In this study, we will analyze how genes contained in the genome work cooperatively in the control of cell division, cell shape change, and cell movement, by using embryogenesis of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system. 3. Research characteristics (incl. originality and creativity) We aim to understand the molecular mechanisms that control dynamic cellular behaviors by using state-ofthe-arts technologies of high-resolution live-imaging microscopy and manipulation of gene functions. We will visualize cytoskeletal proteins and their regulators in live C. elegans embryos and analyze their behaviors within the cells. We also analyze how these protein behaviors are affected by manipulation of other gene functions. 4. Anticipated effects and future applications of research Defects in cell divisions, cell shape change and cell migration will lead to various diseases including cancer and abnormal development. By elucidating the genomic control of cellular dynamics, this study will provide new insights into the biology and potential cures of these genetic diseases.