This project will address problems involving fluid flow and mass transfer in the human body, specifically in the lungs and gut. We are interested in using mathematical models to understand how inhaled particles (allergens, pathogens, drugs) mix and spread through the lung airways, how nutrients are taken up by the intestines, and other similar biomedical problems. These questions require a multi scale modelling approach to deal with the wide range of spatial and temporal scales across which flows occur in the human body.

Overview

Most proteins fold into a rigid shape to do their job. However, a fascinating class called Intrinsically Disordered Proteins (IDPs) are completely flexible and shape-shifting. Because they lack a fixed structure, they are essential for controlling key cellular processes. But this same flexibility can also backfire—when these proteins misfold, they can clump together and cause severe human diseases.

Project Overview

APOBEC3G (A3G) is a powerful human protein that acts as a front-line defense against HIV-1 by mutating viral genetic material during replication. However, designing therapies that protect A3G from HIV's viral counter-defenses requires understanding its internal moving parts.