We are interested in the connection between cellular decisions to assemble factors at the right time and place, and in the right shape with the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton that makes these changes occur. Such coordination is essential for many processes including neuronal outgrowth, wound healing, and specific localization of morphogens during development. We study budded growth in S. cerevisiae, which provides an excellent opportunity to study these problems. Bud formation in yeast occurs at a particular place on the cell surface, and at a particular time in the cell cycle. We study cytokinesis in the budding yeast as well.
Cytokinesis occurs at the position established by the bud-site selection machinery.
Like bud-site selection, both the timing and position of the cytokinetic machinery must be carefully regulated. A UROP student could participate in any of the ongoing projects we have in the lab, or we could develop a project tailored specifically for an individual. The student would have an opportunity to use both classical and molecular genetics, recombinant DNA technology, light microscopy, immunoblots, and yeast strain construction.