Faculty Profile
Name: Kyle Roux
Homepage: http://www.acb.med.ufl.edu/about/peopleinfo.asp?FacultyID=84
Research Interests:
Our overall research focus is on the structure and function of the nuclear envelope. Recently, two important discoveries have enhanced interest in this field. The first was identification of multiple diseases associated with mutations in nuclear envelope constituents. The second was identification of two families of proteins that interact to form the LINC-complex.

We are one of several groups involved in the recent characterization of a structure that links the nucleoskeleton to the cytoskeleton, which we have termed the LINC-complex. This complex consists of interactions between inner nuclear membrane sun proteins and outer nuclear membrane nesprin proteins that translumenally connect these two membranes. However, it is the association of nesprins with cytoskeletal constituents and the interaction of sun proteins with A-type lamins and chromatin that has generated the most interest. This system appears to provide a direct two-way mechanical communication between the nuclear contents and the rest of the cell, and perturbation of this link may have deleterious effects on cellular physiology. We currently have multiple projects designed to reveal the function of novel nesprins as well as the role of the LINC-complex in cellular organization.

Mutations in LMNA, which encodes a type of nuclear intermediate filament called A-type lamins, are associated with multiple diseases. These diverse diseases include forms of lipodystrophy, muscular dystrophy, neuropathy and progeria. Thus far, the mechanism by which altered expression of A-type lamins leads to these variable phenotypes has yet to be established. We are investigating fundamental principles of lamin biology in an attempt to uncover the disease mechanisms relating to A-type lamins.

Current Running Projects:
Biological - The nuclear envelope in heath and disease
Our overall research focus is on the structure and function of the nuclear envelope. Recently, two important discoveries have enhanced interest in this field. The first was identification of multiple diseases associated with mutations in nuclear envelope constituents. The second was identification of two families of proteins that interact to form the LINC-complex.

We are one of several groups involved in the recent characterization of a structure that links the nucleoskeleton to the cytoskeleton, which we have termed the LINC-complex. This complex consists of interactions between inner nuclear membrane sun proteins and outer nuclear membrane nesprin proteins that translumenally connect these two membranes. However, it is the association of nesprins with cytoskeletal constituents and the interaction of sun proteins with A-type lamins and chromatin that has generated the most interest. This system appears to provide a direct two-way mechanical communication between the nuclear contents and the rest of the cell, and perturbation of this link may have deleterious effects on cellular physiology. We currently have multiple projects designed to reveal the function of novel nesprins as well as the role of the LINC-complex in cellular organization.

Mutations in LMNA, which encodes a type of nuclear intermediate filament called A-type lamins, are associated with multiple diseases. These diverse diseases include forms of lipodystrophy, muscular dystrophy, neuropathy and progeria. Thus far, the mechanism by which altered expression of A-type lamins leads to these variable phenotypes has yet to be established. We are investigating fundamental principles of lamin biology in an attempt to uncover the disease mechanisms relating to A-type lamins.

Requirements: Please provide current college transcripts. Background in molecular biology, microbiology or cell biology with laboratory experience preferred. Must be willing to work hard to generate meaningful data.

Time Commitment: >1 year, >10-15 hrs per week
Independent Study: Available
Work Study: Not Available
Salary: Not Available
Volunteer: Available
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