Keeping forces local for epithelial homeostasis (2022-2025)
Abstract
This project probes how epithelial cells use mechanical forces to communicate with one another in biological life. It tests the novel concept that negative feedback is a critical, hitherto unappreciated dimension in mechanical communication, which acts to ensure proportionate responses for homeostasis. It will generate fundamental new knowledge in biology using an innovative combination of cellular and biophysical experiments and physical theory. The expected outcomes are fundamental new knowledge, interdisciplinary training for young scientists, new national research capacity and growing international collaborations. It will benefit Australia by enhancing its scientific world linkage, status in scientific leadership and research capacity.
