Tools
We develop and apply a range of tools to investigate the mechanobiology of cells, with a particular focus on receptor–ligand interactions at the single-molecule level. Our research also explores how cellular forces influence receptor mechanotransduction and ultimately shape cell behavior.
Featured
Utilizing a RBC as a force transducer, BFP measures single molecule interactions with ~1 pN resolution. BFP allows us to mesure receptor-ligand kinetics in the presence of force, and was instrumental in the discovery of Catch-bonds.
DNA-based MTPs allow us to probe the pico-Newton forces that cells endogenously apply on their membrane receptors that govern adhesion and antigen recognition. These hairpin probes unfold upon application of force and emit a fluorescent signal.
Measures in situ 2D binding kinetics, which has more biological relevance and better correlates with function compared to 3D affinity techniques