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Dr. Nicolas Fritz, Cell Physics, Dept Applied Physics, Science for Life Laboratory

Mobility of proteins and organelles is a key component in regulation of neuronal function

Time: Thu 2014-10-23 09.00 - 11.00

Location: FA32

Participating: Dr. Nicolas Fritz

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Title: Mobility of proteins and organelles is a key component in regulation of neuronal function

Abstract:

Cells rely on dynamic processes at every possible scale. Indeed, cell migration, subcellular compartments mobility, lateral diffusion of protein in the membrane and intramolecular dynamics all need to be tightly regulated for proper cell function. 

We use advanced light microscopy, including FRAP, single particle tracking with quantum dots as well as a number of reporter molecules, to study mobility of proteins in the plasma membrane, intracellular movements of organelles and measure Na+, Ca2+ and ATP dynamics as a readout of cellular functions.

In this talk, I will discuss projects illustrating related aspects of the role of mobility for neuronal functions. First, I will present the lateral diffusion dynamics of neuronal Na,K-ATPase in the plasma membrane and show that alterations of the diffusion using physiological methods regulate its function. In the second part, I will present live cell imaging methods to investigate mitochondrial dynamics and functions. As (1) the Na,K-ATPase in the brain consumes up to 50% of the energy produced, and (2) an important function of mitochondria is to produce energy in the form of ATP, we are in fact developing a unique platform to investigate critical bioenergetics processes in neurons.

Page responsible:Peter Unsbo
Belongs to: Department of Applied Physics
Last changed: Oct 22, 2014