About us

The research group was established in 2017 and focuses on the regulation of the dynamic rearrangement of actin combining the tools of cell biology, signal transduction and biophysics. Mechanobiology includes all biological processes during which the cell adapts to the changed external conditions through signal transduction processes to withstand (and respond) the external mechanical forces. Our research group set out to characterize the molecular mechanism of these signaling processes, for example the passage of cancer cells through the vessel wall during metastasis.

Research areas

Mechanobiology of endothelial cells, studying the transmigration of cancer cells:

During its passage (transmigration) through the endothelial layer, the cancer cell exerts force on the endothelial layer to promote its transmigration to enhance the chance of metastasis. We are currently studying this process in a model system where we apply force (in the pN range) to the endothelial cells through specific cell surface (adhesion) molecules, and then follow how the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton is regulated during the process. We also visualize the changes of the endothelial actin cytoskeleton during the passage of cancer cells using a confocal microscope. The role of the proteins of the signaling pathways that regulate the dynamics of the actin cytoskeleton is studied using western blot and confocal microscopy. This knowledge might help us to find new ways to treat metastasis.

Characterization of the functional effects of actin mutations linked to rare diseases

This research is carried out in the frame of an international collaboration. In our laboratory, we investigate the molecular background of how actin mutations cause various diseases. We study the behavior of cells isolated from patients, with particular attention to the dynamic rearrangement of actin. The cells are stretched using a special device and the rearrangement of the actin cytoskeleton is monitored with a confocal microscope. As a result of the mutation, changes in the physical properties of the actin cytoskeleton of the cells (e.g., flexibility) are also characterized using an atomic force microscope. The acquired knowledge can help us improve the quality of life of patients.

The project was funded by the ERA-NET COFUND / EJP CO-FUND and the EU Horizon 2020 research and innovation program. Project ID: 2019-2.1.7-ERA-NET-2020-0001.