Project Details
Projekt
GRK 1050: Molecular Basis of Dynamic Cellular Processes
Subject Area
Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
Term
from 2005 to 2009
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 375559
Cell migration and the interaction between cells play a central role in the development and function of cell assemblies and are tightly coupled with the dynamics of cellular structures and intracellular transport processes. The function and subcellular distribution of the signalling complexes that mediate the contact and communication between cells is controlled in a highly dynamic fashion. Single macromolecules, supramolecular aggregates and whole organelles are transported to distinct subcellular destinations. At the same time, the cell endocytoses components of the extracellular matrix, activated receptors and parts of the plasma membrane und sorts these into distinct cellular compartments where they are metabolised or activate specific signalling pathways.In the Research Training Group, we plan to address the question how the different cellular components cooperate to coordinate cell migration and the formation of cell-cell contacts with changes in the morphology and structural organisation of cells. Intracellular transport processes and the regulation of the dynamic interaction between plasma or organelle membranes and the cytoskeleton are one focus in the Research Training Group. Here we will concentrate on membrane and protein transport, with a special emphasis on membrane-cytoskeleton interactions in the endosomal system and the architecture of nuclear pores and their function in nucleo-cytoplasmic transport. The analysis of the role of GTPases and molecular motors for cell migration and dynamic changes of the cytoskeleton and of the regulated distribution and assembly of proteins and protein complexes in differentiated cells will help to elucidate the mechanisms that coordinate changes in the cytoskeleton and other cellular components. Cell-cell recognition and establishment and modification of specific cell contacts, for example during cell migration and extension of cellular processes, will be a second focus of the Research Training Group. Here, we will analyse the signals and cellular changes in endothelial cells that accompany and regulate the transmigration of leukocytes. In the nervous system of Drosophila cell-cell recognition will be investigated during the establishment of synaptic contacts in the olfactory system and during the migration of glial cells.
DFG Programme
Research Training Groups
Applicant Institution
Universität Münster
Spokesperson
Professor Dr. Andreas Püschel
