Investigating the assembly of actin networks

Condensed Matter lunchtime seminar

Investigating the assembly of actin networks

  • Event time: 1:00pm
  • Event date: 11th January 2010
  • Speaker: Linda Hirst (University of Edinburgh)
  • Location: Room 2511,

Event details

Self-assembly of the semi-flexible filamentous protein F-actin with different linking proteins is investigated using the complementary methods of confocal microscopy, small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The cross-linker alpha-actinin has been shown to produce fascinating hierarchical networks at high cross-linker concentrations which lead to extremely low density, gel-like structures. We are interested in the different bundle and network structures which form depending on the nature of the cross-linker and explore the phase diagram for these systems.

About Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars

This is a weekly series of informal talks given primarily by members of the institute of condensed matter and complex systems, but is also open to members of other groups and external visitors. The aim of the series is to promote discussion and learning of various topics at a level suitable to the broad background of the group. Everyone is welcome to attend..

Find out more about Condensed Matter lunchtime seminars.