Research: Our research focuses on the biochemistry and biophysics of the cytoskeleton, with
particular emphasis on the mechanics of microtubulesand microtubule-based motor proteins. On the one hand, the lab is interested in how these proteins work: i.e. how do kinesins, dyneins and microtubules act as molecular machines to convert chemical energy derived from the hydrolysis of ATP or GTP into mechanical work used to power cell motility? And, on the other hand, we are interested in the roles that microtubules and their motors play in shaping and moving cells and tissues. For example, how do the dynamic properties of microtubules drive spindle and chromosome movements in mitosis, and how does dynein drive axonemal motility? What roles do microtubules and their motors play in mechanoreception in sensory cells and in shaping neurons in the brain?
