Nanoscale architecture of cortical force generating complexes in reconstituted systems
Prof. Marileen Dogterom (AMOLF) and prof. Peter Peters (NKI) study dynamic properties of the cytoskeleton at the cell cortex. These dynamics are essential for proper cell division, differentiation and other vital processes. Earlier studies in a reconstituted system provided quantitative data on the dynamic properties and the generation of forces. In order to connect dynamic properties to architectural details, it is essential to obtain nanoscale structural information using cryo-transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Figure: asymmetric spindle positioning in C elegans embryo (image taken from Grill et al, Nature 409, 2001). Scale bar, 10 mm. Below: In vitro reconstitution of the cortical microtubule-dynein contact.
