Signal-dependent generation and function of the actin filament arrays defined by SWAP-70

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Martin Bähler
• Subject Area: Cell Biology
• Term: from 2003 to 2008
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5407778

A dynamic cytoskeleton allows cells to change their morphology and intracellular organization. The actin cytoskeleton consists of functionally different subsets of actin filament arrays that contribute to cell migration, shape changes, adhesion, and uptake of extracellular and plasma membrane components. We have identified a hitherto unrecognised dynamic subpopulation of actin filaments by the association with the protein SWAP-70. We now plan to elucidate the formation and function of this subpopulation of actin filaments. Furthermore, we want to understand what signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms control the targeting of SWAP-70 to these actin filaments and how SWAP-70 modulates the actin organization.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 1150: Signal Pathways to the Cytoskeleton and Bacterial Pathogenesis