Department of Applied Physics

Description

Biophysics

Our laboratory works on general aspect of control as applied to the cell division cycle. In spite of our exquisite molecular knowledge, we lack a precise understanding of the regulatory dynamics associated with cell cycle transitions. Surprisingly, although size control has been known about since the 1970’s, we still do not know the mechanisms that allow a cell to compute its own size. Through studies with yeast and higher eukaryotes, we aim to lay the groundwork for a more satisfying systems-level understanding of the cell cycle and size control. I teach a graduate level course on the principles of cell cycle control (Bio171/271 Csb271) which aims to apply basic concepts from nonlinear dynamics to the study of the regulatory genetic networks controlling cell division. This interdisciplinary course attracts students from a wide range of backgrounds.

Courses Taught

• Principles of Cell Cycle Control

Selected Publications

• The effects of molecular noise and size control on variability in the budding yeast cell cycle
• Positive feedback of G1 cyclins ensures coherent cell cycle entry
• To divide or not to divide
• Daughter-specific transcription factors regulate cell size control in budding yeast
• Cell cycle analysis: Live-cell imaging
• Commitment to a cellular transition precedes genome-wide changes in transcription
• Distinct interactions are responsible for the selection of maintenance of a cell fate