Elucidating the role of unc-53 and its molecular partners in actin mediated processes

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Changes in cell shape are associated with a variety of developmental processes including cell migration, patterning of the nervous system, cell division, and transport of molecules in and out of the cell. We have been studying the role of the navigators, molecules that are required for the migration of cells and neuronal processes in both worms and humans, and have shown that they exert their influence by re-organizing actin filaments, the network of cables that make up part of the cytoskeleton and control cell shape changes. The objectives of my research program are to elucidate the role of the navigators and their molecular partners in actin cytoskeleton processes such as cell migration and the trafficking of molecules inside the cell. These studies have implications for diseases such as cancer, as well as neurodegenerative disorders, and healing after neural injury.