Cells are characterised by a narrow size distribution that can vary from as much as several orders of magnitude between smaller cells, such as red blood cells, and large muscle cells. This cell size scaling suggests that reaching and maintaining “the right size” for a given cell could play an important role in performing its function. However, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of this size and its relationship to cell function remain unclear.
In cells of increasing sizes, our preliminary data show that the overall actin content scales with the actual size and volume of cells and that the global turnover of actin networks is reduced. However, it is so far unknown how this translates between different cellular actin architectures displaying different turnover and how this relates to the function of cells. In this project, we thus propose investigating how interdependent cytoskeletal organisations and their associated dynamics adapt in different cell size contexts.
To address this question, we are planning to characterise the presence, organisation and dynamics of distinct actin networks in cells displaying significant differences in their area. In addition, we will assess how variations in cell size impact cell migration, a process that requires the activity of different cytoskeletal architectures. Finally, we plan to assess the feedback mechanisms between cytoskeletal architecture dynamics, cell size and function by perturbing the organisation and dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton in cells of different sizes.
The candidate will use the well-established biomimetic system of micropatterning to vary cell size. He/she will use a combination of live and fixed imaging techniques to reveal the internal organisation and dynamics of different cytoskeletal networks. An original pipeline of analysis, based on advanced AI-assisted methods, will be set up to study actin organisation and dynamics together with cell size and function.
The selected candidate will have a unique opportunity to be part of an internationally renowned team, working in a creative and lively environment, providing access to state-of-the-art techniques (microfabrication techniques, advanced microscopy, and biophysics).
Supervisor:
Name: Laëtitia Kurzawa
E-Mail Address: laetitia.kurzawa@cea.fr
Host group/team:
Cytomorpholab ( http://cytomorpholab.com/ )