Research Description

Our work aims to uncover conserved mechanisms that control cell polarization and cellular lifespan in eukaryotes. Cell polarity is a universal feature of living cells, from bacteria to humans. Establishing polarity is critical for cell proliferation and development. Abnormal regulation of cell polarity and asymmetry has been implicated in disease processes, such as cancer and cellular aging. Cell growth and division are tightly coordinated and impact the life cycle and lifespan. Our current research has two main focuses: (1) spatiotemporal regulation of cell polarity establishment and the organization of septins, a conserved family of GTPases that form filaments and higher-order ultrastructures; and (2) control of cellular aging and lifespan.