Duncan J Clarke

Duncan J Clarke is a Professor in the Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development at the University of Minnesota Medical School. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of chromosome segregation during cell division, with particular emphasis on the role of DNA topoisomerases and related proteins.

Dr. Clarke's research interests include:

• Mechanisms of chromosome segregation during mitosis
• Function of DNA topoisomerase II in centromere and kinetochore regulation
• Role of SUMOylation in chromosome dynamics
• Spindle assembly checkpoint mechanisms
• Interactions between histone modifications and chromosome segregation machinery
• Connections between DNA topology and cell division

His recent publications reveal a strong focus on the molecular details of chromosome segregation, particularly examining how DNA topoisomerases, histone modifications, and microtubule dynamics coordinate to ensure accurate chromosome distribution during cell division. His work bridges basic molecular mechanisms with potential clinical applications in cancer therapy, as evidenced by his research on topoisomerase inhibitors.

Dr. Clarke has received significant research funding from NIH, including:

• Control of Chromosome Segregation by DNA Topoisomerase II (2024-2028)
• A high-throughput screen for inhibitors of Plk1-interacting checkpoint helicase (PICH) (2022-2025)
• Multiple previous NIH-funded projects dating back to 2003

His laboratory utilizes both yeast and mammalian model systems to investigate fundamental mechanisms of chromosome segregation that are conserved across species, with potential implications for understanding cancer development and improving cancer therapies.