Project Details
Projekt
Scaffolding of mechanotransduction domains in migrating and non-migrating cells (A09)
Subject Area
Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
Term
from 2011 to 2023
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 184695641
We have identified the oligomeric scaffolding protein STOML3 as crucial for regulating the sensitivity of mechanosensitive channels. Mechanosensitive channels, such as PIEZO2 and TRPV4, are also gated by movement of the extracellular matrix and we propose that force is transferred to the channel via associated molecular scaffolds. Here, using single molecule imaging, we will investigate the molecular organization of the STOML3 protein oligomers in relation to PIEZO2 ion channels in sensory neurons as well as in a novel population of Piezo2 expressing endothelial cells that migrate. Our work will provide a molecular picture of how scaffolds operate to tune the sensitivity of mechanosensitive ion channels in different cellular contexts.
DFG Programme
Collaborative Research Centres
Applicant Institution
Freie Universität Berlin
Project Heads
Dr. Annette E. Hammes-Lewin; Professor Gary Richard Lewin, Ph.D.; Dr. Kathryn Poole, until 2/2016
