D8: Spatial modeling of gradient sensing exemplified for the yeast pheromone response

Yeast cells mate using pheromone secretion and sensing and directed protrusion formation. Employing a combination of fluorescence and atomic force microscopy with spatiotemporal mathematical modeling, we will investigate the role of functional modules in three types of processes: i) pattern formation of pheromones, ii) implementation of stable spatial cell response, and iii) induction and mechanics of cell shape change. On top, we study principles of mutual information exchange among the mating cells.