Project description

ESCRT-III proteins form supramolecular structures that are essential for membrane remodelling processes across the tree of life. In archaea and eukaryotes, the ESCRT-III proteins assemble into polymers that cut membrane tubes together with Vps4, an AAA–ATPase. Hereby biological processes such as membrane repair and cell division are driven. So the ESCRT-III complex and Vps4 are key players in cellular processes and understanding their roles shed light on early cellular mechanisms and the evolution of life, both in archaea as well as in eukaryotes. The presence of ESCRT-III and Vps4 in archaea suggests that these proteins were part of the last universal common ancestor (LUCA) of archaea and eukaryotes.

While membrane remodelling in general and cell division in particular are such dynamic processes, visualising the protein dynamics at relevant length scales is not trivial. The dynamic interplay occurs at length scales much smaller than the diffraction limit of light, and thus beyond the reach of traditional microscopes. STED (stimulated emission depletion) super-resolution microscopy allows imaging with a resolution of ~30 nm, even in living cells. In this project STED microscopy on living cells will be performed to determine the subcellular organisation of the ESCRT-III polymers during cell division and what the role of Vps4 is in this process. In addition, atomic force microscopy experiments will be performed in the lab of Wouter Roos in order to obtain a molecular level detailed picture of the activity of ESCRT-III and Vps4. To conclude, by this combined approach the roles of these proteins in membrane remodelling and cell division will be elucidated thereby providing essential clues about the evolution of cellular complexity and the origin of life.

Additional specifications

We look for a candidate with a MSc in Physics, Chemistry, Biology or a related discipline. Experience with light microscopy is an advantage