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Mark DeWittClass of 2008Undergraduate Institution: Reed College Major: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Origin: Boston, MA Lab: Ahmet Yildiz Location: 256 Stanley Email: dewittm AT berkeley
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Research |
I study the stepping behavior of the molecular motor dynein using single-molecule fluorescence microscopy. Specifically, I am developing methods to observe the stepping behavior of both heads of a processive dynein simultaneously as the motor walks along a microtubule, so as to elucidate key aspects of the stepping mechanism.
I recently published my work on this project. We found that processive dynein, unlike other processive motors such as kinesin, does not coordinate stepping between the two heads to achieve processivity. Rather, the heads behave as two independent steppers, connected by a long flexible linker.
I recently published my work on this project. We found that processive dynein, unlike other processive motors such as kinesin, does not coordinate stepping between the two heads to achieve processivity. Rather, the heads behave as two independent steppers, connected by a long flexible linker.
Publications |
DeWitt MA, Chang AY, Combs PA, Yildiz A. Science. 2012 Jan 13;335(6065):221-5. PMID: 22157083
