This research will use self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of alkanethiolates on gold as model substrates with which to study the mechanistic roles of ligand-receptor interactions in cell migration. This work will focus on the migration of fibroblasts on SAMs presenting a uniform density of the RGD tripeptide (for adhesion of cells) and a gradient of the carbohydrate N-acetylglucosamine; the cell uses a galactosyltransferase receptor to bind the immobilized carbohydrate and migrate in the direction of increasing density of this ligand. This work will use these substrates--and those presenting non-natural analogs of the ligands--to address several mechanistic issues: (i) determine the relationship between the migration of fibroblasts and the density and geometry of the gradient of carbohydrate; (ii) investigate the basis for polarization of migrating cells; (iii) determine the relative rates for extension of the leading edge and retraction of the trailing edge of the migrating cell; (iv) determine the relevance of glycosylation by the receptor for migration.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
First Independent Research Support & Transition (FIRST) Awards (R29)
Project #
1R29GM054621-01A1
Application #
2023472
Study Section
Bio-Organic and Natural Products Chemistry Study Section (BNP)
Project Start
1997-09-01
Project End
2002-08-31
Budget Start
1997-09-01
Budget End
1998-08-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1997
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Chicago
Department
Chemistry
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
225410919
City
Chicago
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
60637