Introduction to Force and Motion in Human Cells

Actin Filaments.

Study the tiny molecular motors that cells use to produce force and motion in human cells. 

Project is Not Currently Available

This project is not being offered for the current term. Please check back next semester for updates.

Project description

To break symmetry, all cells polarize making one part of the cell structurally, functionally, or computationally different than another. Polarization requires a complex arrangement of active processes including the production of force to produce the cornucopia of cell shapes and structures found throughout life. In humans force is produced in part through tiny molecular motors that act upon the cytoskeleton. This project focuses on the human gene products of Myo9B and MYH9 which are both myosin motors that produce force and motion on the actin cytoskeleton. Disruption of the proteins deriving from these genes, results in multiple human disease of the gut including Celiac disease. This project involves working with a team of graduate and post graduate level trainees to study the function of these motors in human cells using state of the art light microscopy, cell biology and biochemistry. 

Project outcome

  • Students will develop critical thinking skills and exposure to the scientific method through the study of myosin motors in human cells using in vitro biochemistry and microscopy.
  • Students will evaluate research data generated and its application to the production of force by molecular motors in human cells
    students will collaborate with their research mentor and others in the lab through effective oral and written communication including presentations at lab, departmental, institutional and national levels.
  • Students develop networking skills and will present their work as a poster presentation at a institutional or external scientific meeting. 

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment Longer than a semester; 6-9 months)
Start time Spring (January/February 2025)
Summer (May/June 2025) 
In-person, remote, or hybrid? In-Person Project (Can only function with in-person engagement)
Level of collaboration Small group project (2-3 students)
Benefits Stipend
Who is eligible Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors that have taken BCH403 course

Project mentor

Andrew Lombardo

Assistant Professor

Biochemistry

Phone: (716) 881-8007

Email: atlombar@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

  • Read chapter 17 Molecular Cell biology by Lodish et al. PDF of chapter text can be provided by emailing Dr. Lombardo. 

Keywords

Lombardo, Biochemistry, Force, Myosin, Actin, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences