The Hwang lab is interested in studying cellular morphogenesis by which the size or shape of a cell is generated and organized to adapt to certain developmental or environmental changes. Cellular morphogenesis relies on the dynamic interaction of multiple cytoskeletal systems: microtubule cytoskeleton, actin cytoskeleton (also known as microfilament), as well as intermediate filaments. In addition to their cooperative function, each cytoskeleton element plays its unique role during morphogenesis. The dynamic cooperation between these cytoskeletons as well as their individual dynamics are controlled by their associating proteins. We are currently studying the function of specific cytoskeleton-associating proteins on neuritogenesis. Neuritogenesis is a morphogenetic process through which a nerve cell generate its elongated axon and dendrites. It is the fundamental process underlying the establishment and plasticity of neuronal networks. Our lab uses a variety of techniques, including molecular biology, biochemistry, and microscopy to study various morphogenetic processes. The image above is a neuronal cell aggregate imaged with confocal fluorescent microscopy. The actin cytoskeleton is shown in red, the neuron-specific microtubule in green, and DNA in blue.
Eric Hwang, Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Science and Technology
Room 111 Zhu-Ming Building, 75 Bo-Ai Street
Hsin-Chu, Taiwan 300
Tel: +886-3-5712121#56968
hwangeric (at) mail.nctu.edu.twAll rights reserved. © 2008 Eric Hwang
