Research

My research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanics of smooth muscle in the latch-state. Briefly, latch is this state in which smooth muscle is able to maintain force for long periods of time but at low energy cost. Several theories have been suggested to explain the latch-state, implicating the myosin isoforms as well as the actin regulatory proteins. I address these theories directly at the molecular level using the in vitro motility and the laser trap assays.