Australian Scientists Unveil Groundbreaking Research on Fruit Flies in Biophysical Journal

Scientists at Augusta University are making exciting strides in biophysics. A recent study from the Langridge Lab and Malmi-Kakkada Lab has shed new light on how cells communicate. After three years of hard work, their findings were published in the Biophysical Journal, a well-respected peer-reviewed journal.

The study, titled “Contact area and tissue growth dynamics shape synthetic juxtacrine signaling patterns,” investigates the intricate ways in which cells interact.

One of the highlights of their research was a stunning microscopy image featured on the journal’s cover. Dr. Paul Langridge, an assistant professor at AU and team leader, explains that the goal was to pinpoint the key factors affecting cell communication in tissues.

Cells in multicellular organisms utilize Notch receptors to send signals. These receptors connect to ligands on neighboring cells, creating a bridge. This connection allows specific signals to reach the target genes after the receptor detaches.

Langridge and his team developed a synthetic method to mimic this communication in a controlled manner. This allows them to focus on one specific signal without interference from other cellular interactions. He explained, “It’s just one particular message we’re looking at amongst all the background signals, enabling us to understand exactly what’s happening.”

Interestingly, problems with Notch receptor signaling can lead to various diseases, including cancer. While their research is primarily aimed at broader biological questions, Langridge sees potential applications in medicine, especially in cancer treatment.

For example, some researchers are already using synthetic receptors to enhance T-cells, which are critical immune cells that target tumors. Langridge’s team conducts much of their research using fruit flies, known scientifically as Drosophila.

These tiny creatures are advantageous for studying complex tissue interactions. They mature quickly, allowing researchers to observe many developmental stages in a short time. Langridge notes, “The processes we’re looking at in fruit flies are quite similar to those in humans.”

Collaboration was key in this project. Abdul Malmi-Kakkada, who focuses on biophysics, applied computational models to the research, enhancing their understanding of cell communication. Malmi-Kakkada said, “Using a computational model lets us control variables in complex systems. It allows us to test specific hypotheses more efficiently.”

The findings revealed unexpected patterns in cell signaling, which aligned with their laboratory observations. For instance, they discovered that the signal output was stronger at the edges of the cell group rather than in the center. This correspondence boosted their confidence in their predictions.

The project also provided valuable experience for students. Shawn Macon, a physics major, examined patterns in their models and how cell contact affected responses. His work solidified his decision to pursue a research career rather than medical school.

Simran Bhikot, a fourth-year biology student, gained hands-on experience in day-to-day lab operations, which sparked her interest in a research career. Meanwhile, graduate students like Breana Walton and Amber Ajamu-Johnson contributed significantly to the project while completing their master’s degrees.

Looking forward, Malmi-Kakkada Lab is set to explore how cell communication can improve immune cell recognition of tumors. Langridge Lab aims to create a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (C.U.R.E.) to integrate research into the classroom setting. The course, titled “Build Your Own Signaling Pathways,” will provide undergraduates with the chance to engage in meaningful research while earning academic credit.

This initiative reflects Langridge’s commitment to expanding research opportunities for students who might not have access to dedicated labs. His goal is to foster a new generation of scientists through hands-on experience and collaborative learning.

Source link