Living cells constantly rearrange themselves to adapt to changing environments and to perform their essential functions. The genome, membranous networks, and cell shape are all modified by molecular machines that exert mechanical forces. Some of these forces are produced by the ends of microtubules – dynamic cytoskeletal polymers that can push and pull on various objects. In our lab, we study these processes by reconstituting them using purified components “from the bottom up”, and performing quantitative microscopy.

biochemistry

in vitro reconstitution

microscopy

data analysis

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