In this project, funded by the Experimental Physical Chemistry Program of the Chemistry Division, Prof. James C. Weisshaar of the University of Wisconsin - Madison and his graduate research students will use the methods of physical chemistry to attempt to understand the fundamental mechanisms in a cell's plasma membrane responsible for exocytosis. The primary tool will be single-molecule fluorescence microscopy of mobile protein molecules on a synthetic planar lipid bilayer. The methods developed should be applicable to other interesting biophysical systems.
Besides the potential broader impact of the proposed research on other biophysical systems, the young researchers working on this project will be exposed to a unique interdisciplinary experience. In addition, Prof. Weisshaar will incorporate aspects of his research into the undergraduate courses that he teaches, and he will visit local community organizations to promote better understanding of the modern research university.
