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Telomeres, centromeres and genome integrity

We study the spectrum and mechanisms of telomere function. Recent highlights include the discovery of a mode by which telomerase-negative cells can use 'generic' heterochromatin to protect ends. We have also expanded the telomeric repertoire, finding that telomeres control meiotic spindle formation and centromere assembly; these principles apply to proliferating cells as well, as centromeres control the decision to mount mitotic spindle assembly.