Individual cells have the ability to perform complex mechanical tasks that are essential for organism development and survival. For example, single cells crawl or swim in the direction of external signals during infection or embryogenesis, and groups of cells change shape and coordinate movement to repair wounds or construct organs.

These dynamic changes in cell morphology and location are mediated by the cytoskeleton, a complex array of filaments and associated proteins that act as the scaffold of cells. While many of the molecular components of the cytoskeleton are well known, their collective interactions in the form of a dynamic, adaptive mechanical system are not. Failures in the regulation of the cytoskeleton can contribute to diseases of the immune system and development, while engineering control of cell movements could enable new biotechnologies that permit directed drug delivery, promote tissue repair, or improve detection of infectious agents.

The Fletcher Lab studies the mechanics and dynamics of cell motility and shape change on three levels:

For these studies, we are developing new instrumentation and measurement technologies to quantify cell and molecular mechanics. Our tools include optical microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical trapping, and microfabrication, as well as biophysical modeling and simulation. Based on our understanding of cell and molecular mechanics, we are developing medical devices that aid in clinical diagnosis and treatment of disease.

Major support: NSF (BES), NIH (NIGMS), DOE (LBL, LLNL), NCIIA, CRCC