One of the central processes in cellular differentiation is the translation of genetic information into spatial organization to produce two daughter cells with different cell fate through asymmetric cell divisions. To understand the regulatory principles of positional information and cell differentiation, we use a simple prokaryotic model system, Caulobacter crescentus, whose life cycle depends on obligate steps of cell differentiation and asymmetric cell division. This simple bacterial system provides sophisticated genetics and biochemistry, ease of obtaining synchronized cell cycle cultures, new cytology tools to study protein dynamics in live cells, and post-genomic techniques.

Our research program addresses the principles that govern temporally and spatially controlled-dynamics of protein localization, and the mechanisms that underlie cell cycle control and the acquisition and propagation of asymmetry. Our ultimate goal is to unravel the complete Caulobacter regulatory network functioning in time and space. Specifically, we will investigate the role and the molecular mechanisms of cell cycle-dependent protein localization. To fully understand the signal transduction network that controls differentiation and cell cycle progression in Caulobacter, another important objective is to identify the missing components of this regulatory network.