Berlin 2018 – scientific programme

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BP: Fachverband Biologische Physik

BP 17: Cell Mechanics I

BP 17.5: Invited Talk

Wednesday, March 14, 2018, 10:30–11:00, H 1058

Tension build-up and membrane deformations in actin-membrane biomimetic systems — •Cécile Sykes — Institut Curie/CNRS/Paris Science et Lettres — 11, rue Pierre et Marie Curie, F-75231 Paris cedex 05

In order to unveil generic mechanisms of cell movements and shape changes, we design stripped-down experimental systems that reproduce cellular behaviours in simplified conditions, using liposome membranes on which cytoskeleton dynamics are reconstituted. Such stripped-down systems allow for a controlled study of the physical mechanisms that underlie cell movements and cell shape changes. Moreover, these experimental systems are used to address biological issues within a controlled, simplified environment. We have reconstituted the actin cortex of cells at the membrane of liposomes, and characterized their mechanical properties. We will show how these cortices contract in the presence of myosin motors, and how such experiments shed light of the mechanisms of cell shape changes. We have reconstituted membrane tubules and spikes pushed or pulled by actin polymerization, and which reproduce the formation of endocytic vesicles and filopodia. We will show how membrane and actin mechanical properties govern their formation.