What is the NWO Theme Fundamentals of Life Processes

Cell division is a basic process found in all living organisms. Mechanisms which we do not yet fully understand ensure that when a cell divides the chromosome material is distributed between the two new cells. An incorrect chromosome distribution in human cells can have serious consequences, for example leading to Downes syndrome or the growth of cancerous cells. Biophysical research attempts to gain an insight into the forces acting on the chromosome in a dividing cell and which set the chromosome in motion. This understanding could form the basis for the development of new drugs, for example to halt the division of cancerous cells whilst leaving healthy cells unaffected.

Recent scientific breakthroughs have led to a spectacular increase in knowledge about the basis of life. The DNA sequence of human genetic material (the genome) was recently unravelled, opening the way to much more functional research aimed at understanding the processes which underlie the functioning of living systems. For example, researchers are seeking to discover how the information from the DNA is converted into functional molecules and how these molecules go on to form living cells.

Research is also going on into the communication and interaction between cells and into how they form organs and ultimately entire organisms. Yet other research focuses on the relationship between the functioning of genes and gene products and environmental factors, for example in ageing.