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SUMMARY:Modelling mechanics of the cell nucleus - Dr Rhoda J Hawkins
DTSTART:20190201T160000Z
DTEND:20190201T170000Z
UID:TALK119497@talks.cam.ac.uk
CONTACT:66046
DESCRIPTION:The cell nucleus is more solid like than the rest of the cell.
  Whilst the cytoplasm deforms relatively easily\, the nucleus shows more r
 esistance to deformation. The elastic properties of the nucleus are though
 t to be determined by the nuclear lamina\, a thin shell made up of protein
  intermediate filaments called lamins. The mechanical properties of the nu
 cleus restrict the ability of migratory cells to pass through small constr
 ictions. Experiments on migrating cells in microfluidic devices have shown
  that cancer cells are able to deform their nucleus and move through small
  constrictions more easily than non cancerous cells. I will present theore
 tical work that we have done to to model the nucleus and calculate the tra
 ction force field required to deform the nucleus so a cell can pass throug
 h a constriction. We have developed an algorithm to calculate the traction
  force field from experimental images of deforming nuclei. The results of 
 our calculations depend on the details of the mechanical properties of the
  model nucleus. I will therefore discuss the mechanical properties of the 
 nucleus and ways we could improve our model. Finally\, I will discuss the 
 active mechanisms by which cells may generate the necessary forces to defo
 rm the nucleus.
LOCATION: Small Lecture Theatre\, Cavendish Laboratory\, J.J. Thomson Aven
 ue
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