Cell Biology

Introduction

Cell Biology: Understanding the function of the genome

The recently completed human genome provides a list of all of the components of the cell; but what do they do and how do they work? These basic questions will drive Cell Biological research well into the new millennium. Cell Biologists at TSRI are uniquely poised to exploit the vast information base of the human genome. Our comprehensive toolbox includes ‘tried-and-true’ classical tools used with innovative new twists (including biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and light and electron microscopy), and powerful new tools (including genomics, proteomics, video and deconvolution microscopy, combinatorial chemistry and high through-put robotics).

Our world-renowned faculty of Cell Biologists seek to understand the mechanisms by which cells carry out their general and specific functions. Research areas being pursued include:

• The cellular machinery and dynamics that control cell shape and movement.
• The protein components and mechanisms that govern intracellular membrane trafficking.
• The structure and function of the nuclear pore and the regulation of transport in and out of the nucleus
• The mechanisms and machinery controlling cell division.
• The spatial and temporal control of signal transduction.

And within the context of a human body, members of the Cell Biology Department are exploring:

• How cells communicate during development or in response to physiological changes.
• How synapses are formed, how neurons make their connections and find their way to sensory organs, and how we learn and store memories.

Cell Biologists at TSRI are providing important new insights into understanding and treatment of numerous human diseases, including muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, cardiomyopathy, heart disease, cancer, retinal degeneration and mental retardation.

The breadth and depth of research opportunities in Cell Biology at TSRI make for an outstanding training environment for both students and postdoctoral fellows. Moreover, Cell Biology at TSRI is integrated with other departments such as Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Immunology and Vascular Biology so that we have our fingers on the pulse of new discoveries and new approaches across a wide range of biological, structural and chemical disciplines. The post-genome era will be one of rapid growth and discovery in Cell Biology. Through the application of sophisticated tools we are rapidly placing newly identified genes in their functional context within the cell and within our bodies. It could not be a more exciting time.