Single molecule methods have started revolutionizing the way we investigate the properties of living systems. Thanks to different experimental modalities, such as localization PALM/STORM microscopy, single molecule counting and tracking, it is now possible to determine the dynamic architecture of supramolecular assemblies in their endogenous cellular habitat, down to their most elementary molecular constituents. In this lecture, the speaker will describe the approach to develop the next generation of single molecule assays in living cells, which combine novel imaging approaches, such as multifocal imaging and adaptive optics and advanced computational methods inspired by data sciences. It will be illustrated by results on the dynamic organization of proteins controlling cell signaling or gene expression. The speaker will also describe the effort to use magnetic or optogenetic probes not only to image but also to control at distance molecular events in living cells. With remote actuation, his goal is to probe fundamental properties of the complex circuitry underlying cellular decision-making processes as well as to implement novel strategies for regenerative medicine.
About the speaker
Prof Maxime Dahan received his MSc and PhD in École Normale Supérieure in 1994 and 1997 respectively. He joined the École Normale Supérieure in 2000 and became the CNRS Research Director since 2009. In 2013, he was appointed as the Director of Physical Chemistry Group in Institut Curie. He has also been the Associate Professor in Physics in École Polytechnique since 2006.
Prof Dahan’s research focuses on the development and applications of single molecule techniques to biology. Using semiconductor quantum dots as fluorescent probes, he recorded the motion of individual biomolecules in vitro and vivo with ms time resolution and nanometer spatial accuracy. He received the Bronze Medal at CNRS and the Jacques Herbrand Grand Prize by the French Academy of Sciences in 2006.
For attendees’ attention
The lecture is free and open to all. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.
