Understanding how cells withstand compression in crowded environments (2026-2029)
Abstract
Little is known about how cells respond to and survive compression, despite it being the force most often experienced by cells in crowded environments. This project will define how cells respond to and cope with physical compression. By combining high resolution imaging with engineering approaches, we expect to reveal how cells dynamically reinforce their cytoskeletal armour in restrictive environments to maintain their genomic, organelle, and cellular integrity. Expected outcomes include new knowledge of broad biological interest reframing how we think about cell movement, survival, and inflammation. This should have applications in bioengineering and plant growth, and prepare the next generation of scientists for the Australian workforce.
