An important problem in cell and developmental biology is to understand how coordination between the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons is achieved. This proposal aims to address this by exploring the interaction between an actin motor, myosin VI, and a microtubule binding protein, D-CLIP-190. Biochemical assays will be performed to determine how the association between these two proteins is regulated. Furthermore, the interacting domains of these proteins will be mapped. Finally, using reagents developed in the course of this work, the in vivo functional relevance of this interaction will be explored. This work will utilize the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as a model system. This system is ideally suited both for biochemical experiments as well as enabling one to address the functions of molecules of interest in many different cell and tissue types in vivo. Because of the molecular and functional conservation of proteins across species, this work should expand our understanding of the interaction between the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons in all organisms. These two cytoskeletal systems are vital to nearly all aspects of cellular function, including those functions that go awry in cancerous states. Thus, learning more about how they function in a coordinated way in normal cells will aid us in understanding the causes and mechanisms of cancer.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32GM066557-02
Application #
6613469
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F05 (20))
Program Officer
Tompkins, Laurie
Project Start
2002-08-01
Project End
Budget Start
2003-08-01
Budget End
2004-07-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2003
Total Cost
$46,420
Indirect Cost
Name
Washington University
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
068552207
City
Saint Louis
State
MO
Country
United States
Zip Code
63130