David and Goliath at the cell surface: Photo-crosslinkable lipid derivatives to control membrane mechanics

In this project, the researchers will pioneer a toolkit to change the lipid composition of the cell membrane, putting control of membrane biophysics into the hands of the researchers. They will use this technology to determine whether the cell membrane plays a stronger role in changes in cell shape, particularly cell division, than previously thought. The tools these investigators will develop will be broadly beneficial to a variety of basic and translational investigations, from developmental to cancer biology. 

This project is part of the 2024 Membrane Biophysics cohort

Researchers in this cohort will focus on cellular membranes that separate cell contents from the surrounding environment, allow cells to change shape, exchange materials, and respond to their environment. Despite having been implicated in numerous human diseases, little is known about the principles governing cell membrane biology and biophysics. This cohort will expand the frontiers of our understanding of fundamental aspects of cell membrane form, function, and dynamics using innovative technologies and analytical frameworks, with important implications for basic science and human health.