Centriole Biogenesis and Stabilization for Centrosomes and Cilia

In the Pearson Lab, we delve into several fascinating aspects of centrioles and basal bodies as they perform roles in organizing centrosomes and cilia. Centrosomes consist of a pair of centrioles surrounded by a matrix of pericentriolar material that nucleates cytoplasmic microtubules. During G0/G1 of the cell cycle, centrioles are commonly modified to serve as basal bodies that organize cilia. These cilia (known as primary cilia), sense their environment and transmit signals to the cell nucleus. Other cells produce motile cilia that produce hydrodynamic force generating fluid flow. In the case of motile cilia and the basal bodies that organize them, we capitalize on the ciliated protist, Tetrahymena thermophila, to understand how centrioles and basal bodies assemble, organize at the cell surface and resist mechanical stress produced by ciliary beating.

We are currently accepting postdocs and students. Please contact Chad if you are interested.

Contact Information
University of Colorado
12801 E. 17th Ave
Research I South 
12403K
Aurora, CO 80045
Lab Phone: 303-724-5742