| Mission |
Plant cell biology studies the mechanisms involved in the regulation of plant cell organization. For this it is essential to study the functions of organelles and molecules, including the bio-physical properties of the various components. The research of the Laboratory of Plant Cell Biology specifically focusses on the role of the cytoskeleton of the plant cell. The cytoskeleton is a dynamic complex of protein polymers inside the cell, that plays a key role in the mechanism controlling cellular organisation. The cytoskeleton not only functions as a skeleton, but also acts as a transport system and communication network inside the cell. Both in-vitro and in-vivo studies, combined with mathematical approaches, are essential for gaining insight in the nature and effects of changes of the cytoskeleton In this way, with the cytoskeleton as focal point, a number of vital cell processes are being studied, such as cell division, cell growth and cell wall formation, interaction of the cytoskeleton with cell membranes, exocytosis, cytoplasmic streaming, cell morphogenesis, cell communication, and cell positioning. Advanced technologies are being used, such as Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy combined with Micro-injection, Micro-manipulation, and manipulation of cell structures with optical tweezers. These light microscopical techniques are correlated with High Resolution Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy combined with High Pressure Cryofixation. The research of the Laboratory of Plant Cell Biology is part of the research programme of the Graduate School Experimental Plant Sciences (EPS). Within the scope of EPS the laboratory collaborates with a number of other research groups, in order to reach a more complete understanding of the mechanisms that regulate plant development. Research themes: 1. Cell Growth 2. Cell Division 3. Cell Differentiation |
