Nuclear Structure & Function – Prof. Amnon Harel
Our Research | Lab Members | Publications | Gallery
Email: amnon.harel@biu.ac.il
Office Phone Number: +972-72-2644-923
Office Phone Number: +972-72-2644-924
Location: Building A, Room 001 (click for full location details)
We are interested in the regulation of traffic between the nucleus and cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells. The nuclear pore complex (NPC) is an intricate nanomachine, or molecular gateway, embedded at the junction between the inner and outer nuclear membranes. The NPC mediates the bi-directional traffic of macromolecules through the nuclear border and impacts many aspects of cellular physiology. We are studying the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenesis of the NPC, and the translocation of different cargoes through its central channel. A major research tool in the lab is the nuclear reconstitution system, derived from frog egg extracts, which enables us to assemble functional nuclei in the test-tube. We also work with mammalian cells and use a combination of protein biochemistry and cell biology techniques, including FPLC, confocal microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.