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Cell Biology Research

Fluorescence microscopy image shows the actin cytoskeleton (red) and the nucleus (grey) of a human cervical cancer cell by Elias Spiliotis, PhD

Cell biology encompasses a variety of questions within the broader areas of cell morphogenesis, intracellular organization and function, and cellular responses and communication. Research interests include the molecular mechanisms that control the positioning and functions of macromolecular assemblies (e.g. cytoskeleton, ribosomes, synapses), and the role of post-translational modifications in gene expression and intracellular transport. Biology faculty study cellular responses and adaptations to protein misfolding, nutrient depletion, viral pathogens, tissue injury and chemotherapeutic compounds. Additional research interests include cell adhesion and signaling in eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell systems. Drexel University's Cell Imaging Center supports the department's cell biology research with state-of-the-art microscopy and cutting-edge imaging methods.

Faculty Conducting Research in Cell Biology

Contact Specialization
Dr. Joseph Bentz
Professor Emeritus
PISB 416
bentzj@drexel.edu
Biophysics of Cell Membrane Function - Membrane Transport by Multidrug Resistance Proteins, chanisms of Membrane Fusion, Peptide/Protein-Membrane Interactions
Dr. John Bethea
Professor
PISB 123.04
jrb445@drexel.edu
Ryan Petrie, PhD
Associate Professor; Director, Biology Graduate Program
PISB 419
3245 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19104

rjp336@drexel.edu

Extracellular matrix; cell motility; cytoskeleton; mechanotransduction; cell-matrix interactions; cell biology; intracellular signaling

Nianli Sang, M.B., Ph.D.
Associate Professor
PISB 417
nianli.sang@drexel.edu
Molecular, Cellular and Biochemical Bases of Major Human Diseases