Systems Biology of Cancer   |   Multi-Scale Modeling of Cell-Adhesion and Migration   |   Cellular Mechanics  

Research

 

Systems Biology of Cancer

Research in the Zaman lab is focused on understanding the cooperativity in molecular and cellular regulators of tumor invasion and metastasis. In particular, we are interested in understanding how mechanical, chemical and biological components of the cellular interior and exterior act synergistically during these processes. Current projects include understanding how the dynamics of receptors on the cell-matrix interface, the cooperativity in signaling cascades and macromolecular structure and mechanics of the matrix and adhesion and migration of tumor cells in native environments are all linked together. In essence, we are focused on understanding how cancer cells gather, integrate and process information during migration, invasion and metastasis.

We rely upon computational and experimental tools, as nearly all of our projects have a theoretical and experimental component. Our tools are derived from fundamental principles of mechanics, imaging, chemistry and cell biology and are tailored to fit the needs of specific projects. Current projects include understanding the role of proteases in adhesion and migration, formation of focal adhesions in 3D and the dependence of 3D migration on cellular mechanical properties. For more information, please see our recent publications.



Multi-Scale Modeling of Cell-Adhesion and Migration

Cell adhesion, migration, signaling, proliferation and differentiation are regulated by complex, non-linear interactions between cells and their surrounding matrices. Research in this area of our lab focuses on developing fundamental models, rooted in statistical and continuum mechanics, probability theory and thermodynamics to gain a multi-scale understanding of cell-matrix interactions in native environments. In particular, we are interested in how conformations of receptors and ligands, as well as strength of adhesive interactions regulates adhesion and migration. Another area of research within this goal is studying interactions between cellular receptors and downstream signaling. Our aim is to gain fundamental insights into adhesion, migration and other cellular processes through first principle theoretical endeavors.

For more information, please see our recent publications.



Cellular Mechanics

In order go gain fundamental insights on the working of the cellular machinery, we need to understand both the mechanics and dynamics within the cellular environment. Research in the cellular mechanics initiative is aimed at understanding the role of cellular mechanical properties in regulating adhesion and migration. Mechanical properties of tumor cells, at various stages of tumor formation and cancer progression are of particular interest. In addition, we are also interested in understanding how cellular mechanical properties adapt to the extracellular mechanical and biochemical properties within two and three dimensional environments.

For more information, please see our recent publications.

 

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