G.W. Gant Luxton

Research Interests

My research aims to unravel the mechanisms and functions of the physical coupling between the nucleus and the cytoskeleton, with a particular focus on the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex. This critical nuclear envelope-spanning structure integrates the nucleus with the cytoskeleton and the extracellular environment, impacting various fundamental cellular processes. I investigate how LINC complexes are assembled, how they mediate nuclear migrations, enable mechanotransduction, and control chromatin organization. I employ advanced biochemical, biophysical, and cell biological methods as well as model systems such as Caenorhabditis elegans, mammalian organoids, and Dictyostelium discoideum. My goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases associated with LINC complex dysfunction, including accelerated aging, dystonia, pancreatic cancer, and neurodegeneration.

Graduate Group Affiliations

• Biophysics Graduate Group