Multiscale Computational Studies of Microtubule Dynamics

Microtubules are a major component of the cytoskeleton and a key player in many essential cellular process such as mitosis, motility, morphogenesis and polarization. Microtubule associated proteins collectively control the assembly dynamics of microtubules and provide them with the necessary flexibility to fulfill their functional roles. Using a combination of automated image analysis, coarse-grained systems level models and bimolecular simulations, we strive to build an integrated understanding of these proteins from the level of the structure and dynamics of individual molecules all the way to the level of their function, regulation and interactions in living cells. In this talk, Ma will present a few examples from the process of moving towards that long-term goal.