We study cell membrane dynamics and how they relate to cellular function. Cell membranes constantly undergo changes in shape, area, and tension. Cellular activity, such as exocytosis and endocytosis, generates and is regulated by membrane tension gradients, which drive membrane flows. We study mechanisms governing membrane fusion, fission, and membrane flows at the molecular and cellular levels, with the broad goal of understanding how these processes influence one another and are linked to higher physiologic functions.
We focus on three broad areas (see our lab web site for more information):
