What single-molecule mechanics can tell us about mitosis

Our laboratory is interested in the biochemical and biophysical basis of cell structure. The structure of a cell is determined primarily by its cytoskeleton, which serves as a scaffold to support the plasma membrane, and as a network of tracks along which motor proteins transport subcellular structures. Our research is therefore focused on the mechanics of the cytoskeleton, with a particular emphasis on microtubules and microtubule-based motors. On one hand, we are interested in the mechanisms by which these proteins work: i.e. how do kinesins and dyneins convert chemical energy derived from the hydrolysis of ATP into mechanical work used to move along or to depolymerize microtubules? And on the other hand, we are interested in the roles that microtubules and their motors play in cell morphology and motility. In this regard we are particularly interested in how the dynamic properties of microtubules and motors drive spindle and chromosome movements in mitosis. To address these questions we are combining molecular biology techniques with image processing, modeling, mechanical measurements and single-molecule techniques.