Regulation mechanisms in molecular motors: engineering bioinspired transportation at micron-scale

Intracellular cargo transport, orchestrated by teams of molecular motor proteins on cytoskeletal tracks, is a fundamental process within eukaryotic cells. This thesis presents a comprehensive investigation into multi-motor cargo transport, employing an array of cutting-edge tools, including instrumentational, computational, and DNA-based single-molecule methods. These diverse approaches converge to unveil unprecedented insights into the coordination mechanisms of molecular motors and the regulation of intracellular cargo transport. The research explores the impact of various mechanical and biochemical factors, including cargo-motor linkage stiffness, the influence of adapter proteins like GIPC, and cargo-motor interaction kinetics, on multi-motor cargo dynamics. Through detailed analyses, the interplay of these factors is deciphered, shedding light on the intricate regulation of cargo transport, including pausing phenomena and forces acting on the actin network. Notably, this work extends its focus beyond fundamental biology to propose novel avenues for engineering bioinspired transportation systems at the micron-scale and beyond. The insights gained from this research not only contribute to our understanding of cellular complexities but also highlight promising solutions to micro-scale transport challenges. Moreover, this thesis provides a glimpse into emerging tools and methodologies that hold the potential to revolutionize the field, opening up new horizons for realizing efficient and precise transportation at micron and sub-micron scales. As we continue to unlock the mysteries of intracellular cargo transport, the integration of these multidisciplinary approaches paves the way for groundbreaking innovations in diverse domains, from drug delivery to nanotechnology, and beyond.

Author dc:creator

• Shrivastava, Rachit

• Bioinspired Engineering
• Computational Biology
• Intracellular Transportation
• Molecular Motors
• Myosin
• Optical Tweezers

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/11299/278804

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:conservancy.umn.edu:11299/278804