Time

Feb 11 2010 - 11:30am - 12:30 pm

Location

JE 355

Speaker

Adriana Dawes (University of Alberta)

Abstract

My work centres on understanding how small scale interactions within a cell can lead to large scale organization. In this talk, I will discuss recent work concerning stable segregation of Par proteins at the one cell stage of the C. elegans embryo. Experimental work has determined that Par proteins interact by mutual phosphorylation, which was thought to be sufficient for stable segregation. However, mathematical modelling suggests that higher order complex formation, such as dimerization, is required. Experimental tests of the mathematical model are consistent with model predictions and the model is able to explain previously puzzling observations. I will conclude by placing these results in the larger context of my work and discussing how they can help us better understand stable protein asymmetry in other cell types.