# RUI: Cell Size and Molecular Concentrations in eukaryotes

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · CUNY Brooklyn College (NY) · $767,880

## Abstract

Every cell type has a characteristic size that is essential for proper function. Cells grow to a determined size and then either divide or stop growing. However, it remains unclear how cells “know” and regulate their size, and how size influences cell behavior. This NSF-funded project will uncover the mechanisms by which cells sense and respond to changes in size, using the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model system. Our research focuses on the role of specific signaling proteins (Protein Kinase C and MAP kinase) to understand how they control cell size and adjust cellular processes. To address these questions, we will combine advanced imaging tools with genome-wide analyses to identify key proteins involved in cell size regulation and to understand how size changes impact cell physiology. This project will provide hands-on research opportunities for undergraduate students at Brooklyn College, a public university in New York City.
 
This study will probe the molecular mechanisms that regulate cell size in S. cerevisiae to: 1) identify cell signaling pathway(s) that detects changes in cell size; 2) use genetically encoded multimeric nanoparticles combined with imaging and data analysis to define mechanisms of cytoplasmic and nuclear dilution in growing cells; and 3) utilize high-throughput single-cell transcriptomics to understand the molecular underpinnings of cell size regulation. The project focuses on Protein Kinase C (PKC) and Mitogen-activated protein kin

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2508688
- **Awardee organization:** CUNY Brooklyn College (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** XNAKYW3FTSE1
- **PI:** Amy Ikui
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** NANOSCALE BIO CORE
- **Estimated total:** $767,880
- **Funds obligated:** $767,880
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2508688

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2508688, RUI: Cell Size and Molecular Concentrations in eukaryotes. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2508688. Licensed CC0.

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