# CAREER: Deciphering Interconnectivity between Cell Cytoskeleton Forces, Mechanics, and Machinery

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of Mississippi (MS) · $649,467

## Abstract

This Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) project seeks to understand the engineering rules that drive cytoskeletal coordination and sensing. Cells serve as nature's smart materials, capable of repairing, reorganizing, and sensing their surroundings. A crucial part of this cellular machinery is the cytoskeleton, which is a dynamic network of proteins that generates force and movement. However, how the parts of the cytoskeleton work together at the molecular level to accomplish larger tasks necessary for life is not understood. The knowledge gained in this project will contribute deeper insight to life’s fundamental mechanisms. It will also provide tools to support challenges in bioengineering, such as creating cells from the bottom up or developing smart materials inspired by biological systems. Outreach and educational programs that build from these research efforts include creating summer research opportunities for student parents and establishing “Teach Through Outreach”, an outreach-based learning program for engineering students. Both have the overarching goal of broadening participation and increasing STEM exposure to underprivileged students in Mississippi.

The cytoskeleton exhibits emergent properties meaning that its ensemble behavior is not simply the sum of its parts. Myosin II is a cytoskeletal motor protein essential for basic cellular functions, and its motility and force generation behavior are significantly different at the single molecule level versu

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2439729
- **Awardee organization:** University of Mississippi (MS)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** G1THVER8BNL4
- **PI:** Dana N Reinemann
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** MB-Mechanobiology, CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, WOMEN, MINORITY, DISABLED, NEC, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT
- **Estimated total:** $649,467
- **Funds obligated:** $649,467
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2439729

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2439729, CAREER: Deciphering Interconnectivity between Cell Cytoskeleton Forces, Mechanics, and Machinery. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2439729. Licensed CC0.

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