Mechanobiology of the Nucleus

The nucleus is the defining feature of eukaryotic cells and houses the cell’s genetic information. Whereas currently substantial efforts and robust communities of researchers exist that focus on the genetic sequences contained in the nucleus and related biochemical processes (e.g., DNA replication and transcription), it is increasingly recognized that the physical properties of the nucleus, including its size, stiffness, and the three-dimensional organization of the nuclear content, play critical roles in defining nuclear and cellular function. In addition, a rapidly growing body of research indicates that physical forces exerted on the nucleus modulate nuclear structure and function, and thereby influence cell fate and decision-making, although the underlying mechanics remain largely unclear. This ‘nuclear mechanobiology’ is now recognized to play important roles in tissue development, homeostasis and various diseases, including muscular dystrophy, heart disease, skin disease, and cancer. Despite the great therapeutic promise of leveraging these insights to tackle these diseases, many fundamental questions remain regarding both the physiological and pathological roles of nuclear mechanobiology. Answering these questions will require multidisciplinary approaches and collaboration between biologists, biophysicists, biomedical engineers, physicists, and mathematical/computational modelers. Towards this goal, this application requests funds to support a “Mechanobiology of the Nucleus” conference organized through the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) Science Research Conference framework, which will take place in Melbourne, Florida, October 26-31, 2025. This will be the first ever research conference dedicated specifically to nuclear mechanobiology with applications across cellular functions and disease. We request funds to cover registration for students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career faculty to defray travel costs for domestic participants as well as to provide family care awards. The meeting will provide a unique forum to discuss the most recent advances in understanding the role of mechanical forces in modulating cellular decision-making by altering nuclear and chromatin biophysics and the role these processes play in fundamental cell biological processes (e.g., migration, differentiation, development) and disease pathogenesis. We have organized a stimulating program of scientific sessions in an environment that is conducive to interactive discussion and discourse among a community of both established investigators and junior scientists representing multiple disciplines. Aim 1 is to provide an interdisciplinary forum and to create a scientific network centered on nuclear mechanobiology and its role in cellular functions and disease. Aim 2 is to highlight novel scientific themes and cutting-edge research tools for nuclear mechanobiology through sessions led by leaders in the field and relevant talks by investigators outside the field. Aim 3 is to foster the engagement and future success of early career scientists in this nascent field to empower the next generation of leaders in nuclear mechanobiology.