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Multicellular organisms have many different cell types that are specialized to perform processes
important to the normal functioning of the organism. Generating the specialized morphologies and
functional properties of these cells usually depends on actin cytoskeletal organization. To
understand the roles of actin cytoskeletal structures in some of these specialized cell types, the
Miller lab uses genetic and molecular genetic techniques to alter the function of particular proteins
of the actin cytoskeleton. These studies use the model system, Drosophila, because this type
of functional manipulation is relatively straightforward. Examination of resulting disruptions of cell
morphology and function using cell biological, biochemical, and imaging methods both in vitro
and in vivo (using GFP and other probes), permit understanding of contributions and regulation
of activity of these specific proteins. In addition, these studies illustrate the general functions of
actin structures present in cells. Because actin and its associated proteins are highly conserved
across all eukaryotic species, the information obtained about mechanism of actin cytoskeletal
organization and function is widely applicable.
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Scanning electron micrograph of an adult Drosophila bristle.
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