Biomolecular Condensates and Membrane Dynamics
We investigate how biomolecular condensates, acting as membraneless organelles, interact with cellular membranes to drive morphological transitions. Using advanced organoid models and STED microscopy, we uncover how these processes contribute to the formation of complex structures, such as tight junctions essential for tissue integrity. Our lab explores how cells exploit the physical principles of condensation and wetting to organize protein networks at membrane interfaces. Combining cutting-edge techniques like organoid systems and super-resolution imaging (e.g., STED microscopy), we examine mesoscale structure formation in epithelial tissues.
Re-formation of Tight Junctions after Wash Out of LatA Treatment; Endogenous NG-ZO1 in a Confluent MDCK-II Monolayer
Decoding Mesoscale Structure Formation
Our lab studies how the collective properties of protein condensates at membrane interfaces contribute to the emergence of mesoscale structures. Using high-resolution visualization tools such as STED and light sheet microscopy, we aim to shed light on how cells regulate morphology and function. Our work bridges biophysics, organoid development, and high-resolution microscopy to explore how protein condensates drive morphological transitions in cells and tissues. Techniques like STED imaging allow us to probe these processes at nanoscale resolution. We study how biomolecular condensates interact with membrane interfaces to drive cellular organization. Organoid models and STED visualization have enabled us to explore the role of polarity proteins in regulating these interactions and shaping tissue architecture.