CMCB Life Sciences Seminar: Dr. Oliver Otto, University of Greifswald, Institute of Physics

Host: Marcus Jahnel (BIOTEC)

Title: "Cell Mechanics beyond the Cytoskeleton"

Abstract: Our research focuses on understanding how mechanical properties of organelles, cells and tissue impact on biological function. Specifically, we are interested in the development of optical methods, microfluidic systems and tissue models to study the rheology of living matter at high spatiotemporal resolution. In this talk I will move beyond the classical picture that cell mechanics is dominated by the cytoskeleton by shedding light on the contributions of membrane properties and intracellular pH. Finally, I will utilise these results for a better understanding of how organelles and cells respond to reactive oxygen species or how red blood cells behave during hibernation.