| Intermediate
filaments are abundant cytoskeletal components with a crucial function
in
mechanical stabilization of cells. Yet, they are surprisingly dynamic
structures capable of rapid adaptation to cellular requirements. Our
observations suggest that focal contacts play an important role in the
induction
of epithelial keratin intermediate filament network formation by serving
as
nucleation centres. Focal contacts are defined adhesion sites of cells
to the
extracellular matrix eliciting structural and functional alterations in
migrating cells. The goal of the project is to determine the importance
of
focal contact-dependent keratin filament renewal in comparison to
mechanisms
that were postulated by others. In addition, the hypotheses are
investigated
that the cytoskeletal linker protein plectin contributes to keratin
network
reformation as a structural component and that focal adhesion
kinase-dependent
signalling regulates keratin formation. The analyses will be carried
out
primarily in living cells. We expect to uncover molecular mechanisms
contributing to intermediate filament biogenesis. |
Still
picture from a live cell recording showing keratin filaments (green)
and focal contacts (red). Movies can be found here. |
