CMB&RM Seminar: Mechanical changes of the cell nucleus in disease and ageing
| Dates: | 6 July 2018 |
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| Times: | 13:00 - 14:00 |
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| What is it: | Seminar |
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| Organiser: | Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health |
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| Who is it for: | University staff, Current University students |
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| Speaker: | Kris Dahl |
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The sequencing of the human genome has provided a wealth of scientific information, but this information is limited by the poor understanding of the mechanisms that control gene expression. In addition to containing the code for the cell, the genome within the nucleus is a complex self-assembled polymeric structure with unique biophysical properties. We have developed numerous techniques including micromanipulation and micropatterning, multichannel registration particle tracking algorithms and fluorescence lifetime imaging to determine how these biophysical properties impact nuclear and cellular function. We are particularly interested in the role that force and cytokine treatment play in altering nuclear mechanics and gene expression in primary human cells. We have quantified nuclear stiffness in a broad spectrum of cell types: cells with less regulated gene expression patterns, including stem cells and cancer cells, have much softer nuclei whereas aged cells have stiffer nuclei. While the mechanisms directing stiffness are still being elucidated, we have quantified dramatic downstream impacts of nuclear stiffness on cellular migration. Recently we have investigated the interconnectedness of cell forces, and we are using the cell nucleus as a read-out for intracellular force generation within monolayers. With this new technique we have been able to determine spatial force variations within heterogeneous monolayer systems as a mimic for early disease models of epithelial and endothelial pathology. These results have broad implications in cell biology, cancer, atherosclerosis and for applications in cellular therapies.
Speaker
Kris Dahl
Role: Professor
Organisation: Department of Chemical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University
Travel and Contact Information
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Lecture Theatre
Michael Smith Building
Manchester
