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Vesicle accumulation
We are using FRAP, microfluidics, and chemical treatment to study the role of tension in regulating vesicle accumulation at synapses.
Molecular rubber band
We showed that actin rings interact with motor proteins to exert a circumferential tension (essentially like rubber bands) in neurons, regulating neuron diameter, and potentially microtubules spacing and biomolecule transport.
Axial tension in neuron
By studying the natural contraction of slacked nerve cells, we identified the proteins responsible for generating the contraction and the axial tension in neurons.
Stretching brain slices
We found that brain slices that had been stretched (see enabling methods) more had higher excitability. Sudden mechanical stretch can also stimulate brain activity.
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