Caveolae as structural mechanosensors: a link between the intra and extracellular environments?

Abstract:: How cells perceive and respond to mechanical cues are fundamental questions in cellular biology. Caveolae are invaginations of the plasma membrane which flatten into the bulk membrane in response to increased membrane tension. This project aims to validate this response at the molecular level in a physiological context. Specifically, how the caveola response coordinates with the extracellular matrix as well as the fate of caveolar proteins once released from caveolae will be addressed. Besides the establishment of new methodologies, our findings will highlight the role of caveolae in the short and long term adaptive responses to mechanical cues and help to understand how cells integrate the extracellular and intracellular environments.
Grant type:: ARC Discovery Early Career Researcher Award
Funded by:: Australian Research Council

The University of Queensland