Cells tightly coordinate their duplication with their growth in order to control their size. Cell sizes span orders of magnitude, from meter-long neurons to tiny lymphocytes for instance. However, size is remarkably uniform within a given cell population. How did evolution shape control mechanisms to adjust the size of each cell to its function and environment? This long-standing question is still open, owing to the lack of quantitative information on size control molecules. To address it, we will use a unique combination of state-of-the-art quantitative imaging and genetics to identify and measure the key parameters that coordinate cell growth and division. We will integrate this unprecedented wealth of quantitative data info mathematical models to predict cellular responses to genetic or pharmacological perturbation. The project outcomes will advance a major frontier in health-related knowledge, and help understand disease-associated mutations in cancer and other genetic disorders.

2022

2026