معرفی
Professor Mike Boxem is a faculty member in the Department of Biology at Utrecht University's Faculty of Science, specializing in Developmental Biology within the Biodynamics and Biocomplexity research group. His research focuses on cell polarization mechanisms using C. elegans as a model organism, with particular interest in understanding the network of functional interactions between polarity regulators, the consequences of loss of polarity to cell behavior and fate, and connections between cortical polarity and other cellular processes. His laboratory is located in the Hugo R. Kruyt Building at Padualaan 8, Room O508, Utrecht.
Boxem's research employs systems biology approaches, systematic experimental manipulation, and live-cell imaging to investigate cell polarity, which is critical for animal development and tissue functioning. His work has significant implications for understanding diseases like cancer where polarity defects play a key role. The research primarily utilizes C. elegans to study epithelial tissues and the complex network of protein interactions at the cell surface that maintain polarity. His group has made substantial contributions to understanding protein phosphorylation, lumen formation, polarity complexes, and protein-protein interactions in developmental contexts.
His publication record demonstrates a consistent trajectory from early work on cell cycle regulation in C. elegans to more recent sophisticated investigations of molecular mechanisms governing epithelial cell polarization. The research spans molecular, cellular, and developmental biology, with applications to understanding fundamental biological processes and disease mechanisms. His work shows increasing sophistication in methodology, incorporating advanced imaging, genetic manipulation, and systems-level analysis.
- NWO Vici Award (2016)
- ECHO grant (July 14, 2014)
Professor Boxem serves as an associate editor for Genetics (a publication of the Genetics Society of America) and actively participates in reviewing articles and grants, serving on grant review committees, and participating in doctoral and dissertation review committees. He also contributes to the organization of scientific conferences in his field, helping to advance the broader research community in developmental and cell biology.
His laboratory at Utrecht University maintains a strong focus on cell polarity research using C. elegans as a model system, with particular emphasis on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern epithelial cell polarization and its role in development and disease. The research group combines molecular, cellular, and systems-level approaches to unravel the complex network of interactions that govern cell polarization in developing organisms.
