Self-organization and mechanics of actomyosin networks attached to artificial and cellular plasma membranes

The aim of this project is to unravel the structural, mechanical and dynamical properties of membrane-bound F-actin networks with increasing complexity including various cross-linkers and myosin motors imposing force-induced fluctuations and internal stresses. Fluid lipid bilayers will be coupled to F-actin networks via ezrin, a natural linker protein. Network mechanics will be investigated by indentation experiments and microrheology and the results will be compared to those obtained from native apical membrane sheets and living cells.