Our research goal is to uncover how the actin cytoskeleton produces force during cellular membrane bending and trafficking processes. The projects in our lab focus on the mechanical relationship between the actin cytoskeleton and mammalian endocytosis using a combination of mathematical modeling, human stem cell genome-editing, and fluorescence microscopy.
Using these tools, we aim to identify mechanisms by which emergent architectures of cytoskeletal networks arise based on the initial positions and geometries of endocytic actin-binding proteins. We also study the mechanisms by which the cytoskeleton actively adapts to changing loads to ensure the timely completion of endocytosis.
Visit simularium.allencell.org to see our interactive simulation of actin participating in clathrin-mediated endocytosis.
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Computational model of actin filament organization during endocytosis
