To divide the genetic material in mitosis cells must attach each sister chromatid with its attachment site called the kinetochore, to the opposite poles of the bipolar spindle. However, to generate haploid gametes, a diploid precursor cell must undergo two specific cell divisions, called meiosis I and II, without DNA replication. During the first meiotic division, whole chromosomes that have recombined are separated and during the second meiotic division, sister chromatids are separated such as in mitosis.

The LBD's MOM group investigated how oocytes "know" when they are supposed to separate chromosomes or sister chromatids. They found that an event they call “sister kinetochore individualization” takes place at the end of meiosis I, on co-oriented kinetochores, and allowing sister chromatid separation only in the immediately following meiosis II.

Overall, this work provides a better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms for the generation of fertilizable oocytes.