Directory
Rafael BERNARDI - Auburn University, Alabama, USA
| When |
Jun 05, 2026
from 11:00 to 12:00 |
|---|---|
| Contact Name | Equipe Pellarin Martin, Salle des thèses |
| Add event to calendar |
vCal
iCal
|
Abstract
Cell adhesion underlies processes ranging from tissue formation to infection and immune recognition. Classical views of molecular interactions often rely on equilibrium concepts such as binding affinity, but cells constantly experience mechanical forces. Recent advances in mechanobiology have revealed that force can reshape molecular behavior, creating interactions that strengthen, weaken, or reorganize under stress. In this seminar, I will discuss how computational and experimental approaches are helping uncover the molecular principles governing force-dependent biology and how these findings challenge traditional views of protein interactions and cellular adhesion.
Short bio
Rafael C. Bernardi is an Associate Professor of Biophysics in the Department of Physics at Auburn University and a member of the NIH Center for Macromolecular Modeling and Visualization. His research combines molecular simulations, biophysics, and AI approaches to understand how mechanical forces regulate protein function in health and disease. He is also involved in the development of widely used computational tools, including NAMD and VMD.
Contact : Paulo Telles de Souza