The Daily Bulletin Archive

Please join the Biology Department, the Great Lakes Center, and the Great Lakes ecosystem science program for the seminar "Deadly Pile-Ups on Neuronal Highways: Motor-Cargo Complexes and Transport Defects in Neurodegenerative Disease," presented by Shermali Gunawardena, associate professor of biological sciences at the University at Buffalo, on Monday, November 27, from 4:00 to 5:15 p.m. in Bulger Communication Center West. All students, staff, and faculty are welcome.

Abstract
Within a polarized cell, such as a neuron, many different components (proteins, organelles, even RNA) must be transported long distances from places where they are synthesized (cell bodies) to sites where they are utilized (nerve terminals). While proper transport is essential for cell viability, it is clear that a complex network of spatial and temporal regulatory mechanisms must exist to enable controlled delivery of particular cargo to specific sites. In this context, the Gunawardena lab is focused on identifying different motor-cargo complexes and the control mechanisms that exist in vivo. Additionally, investigations are also focused on understanding how defects in transport contributes to degeneration of neurons seen in two neurodegenerative diseases.