Mechanisms of megakaryocyte polarisation and platelet biogenesis (A01)

• Subject Area: Cell Biology ; Hematology, Oncology ; Cardiology, Angiology
• Term: from 2018 to 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 374031971

Platelet biogenesis comprises megakaryocyte (MK) maturation, polarisation, transendothelial pro-platelet formation and subsequent maturation into platelets. We aim to better understand the molecular mechanisms of platelet biogenesis by studying different transgenic mouse strains, which display thrombocytopenia and have defects in these various steps. We focus on the role of Rho GTPases, cytoskeletal regulator proteins, MK-specific receptors and the lung in regulating these processes, and will utilise single cell RNA-sequencing, proteomics, phospho-proteomics, CRISPR screening and complementary imaging approaches.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 240: Platelets – Molecular, cellular and systemic functions in health and disease
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Project Heads: Dr. Zoltan Nagy, since 7/2021; Professor Dr. Bernhard Nieswandt; Dr. Irina Pleines, until 6/2021