The Kontrogianni-Konstantopoulos and Bloch labs focus on the role of cytoskeletal proteins in muscle organization. The identification and functional characterization of molecules that form the non-contractile cytoskeleton, which in turn "build" the contractile apparatus of striated muscle, is crucial for understanding how myofibers develop, generate and transmit force, and maintain their structural integrity during contraction and relaxation. Moreover, elucidation of the fundamental biology and pathophysiology of muscle cytoskeleton will give a better insight on the etiologies that underlie severe muscular dystrophies and cardiac disorders. This will ultimately facilitate the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
Part of The Investigator's Annexe program.