Rac1 at the Endoplasmic Reticulum Regulates SecretionRac1 at

Cells in our body are constantkly exposed to mechanical stress signals, such as stretch and compression. Whether and how such mechanical stressors affect the capacity of the cells for secretion (the delivery of proteins to outside of the cell) remains unknown. This project aims at investigating the role of a protein called Rac1 as a mediator between mechanical stress and secretion. We will investigate the role of Rac1at the endoplasmic reticulum, the place where secretion is initiated. The results of this project will establish an unprecedented link between secretion and mechanobiology. Such insights are not only of interest for basic science, but also for cancer research. As cancer cells move within tissue, they are exposed to multiple mechanical stresses. The gained knowledge on the link between mechanical stress and secretion will allow us to better understand how cells communicate with their environment.