Membrane curvature stress triggering cellular signaling

Our cells in the body are surrounded by membranes that act like flexible barriers, controlling what goes in and out. These membranes are not just passive barriers - they can change shape, and these shape changes can send important signals inside the cell. In our research, we are studying how certain natural and synthetic molecules, called amphiphiles, can insert themselves into the cell membrane. This creates a curvature stress, essentially bending the membrane, which can trigger specific cellular responses. Although this phenomenon has been studied in simple lab models, we know very little about how it works in live cells under normal and stress conditions. Our project aims to: Understand which molecules cause these membrane shape changes and why. Study how these changes affect the properties of cell membranes. Explore how membrane bending activates cellular signaling pathways, such as those involving protein kinase C, and uncover the underlying mechanisms. Identify the full range of proteins and genes involved when cells respond to this type of stress. Test natural products that might work by bending membranes and influencing cell behavior. By doing this, we hope to reveal novel insights how cells respond to membrane bending induced by natural and synthetic compounds. Our findings could improve the understanding of how cells protect themselves, respond to stress, and communicate, with potential implications for health and disease.