Team
Cytoskeletal dynamics and nuclear functions

Cells within tissues are continuously exposed to a wide range of biochemical and mechanical signals originating from their microenvironment, to which they actively respond. These signals induce dynamic rearrangements of the cytoskeleton, thereby modulating cellular behavior. In parallel, the reorganization of cytoskeletal filaments is accompanied by pronounced morphological changes of the nucleus. These changes are mediated by the cytoskeleton–nucleoskeleton coupling complex, which transmits mechanical forces to the nuclear envelope and its internal components, including the nucleolus.

We adopt an interdisciplinary approach combining biology, physics, chemistry, and pharmacology to elucidate the mechanisms regulating epithelial homeostasis in response to mechanical stress and their impact on nuclear and nucleolar structure and function; to understand how these mechanisms are altered in pathological contexts such as cancer or chronic diseases; and to identify and pharmacologically target these deregulated pathways.

Our research activities are currently structured around two main and complementary scientific axes, developed in close interaction through collaborative projects.