The project aims to determine the regulation of nuclear mechanics by the cytoskeleton and specifically, the impact of mechanical stimuli on nuclear architecture and chromatin. First, we will characterise nuclear mechanics and the dynamics of chromatin condensation and mobility. Second, we will map intracellular force transmission from the cell surface to and within the nucleus. Finally we will examine changes in nuclear mechanics in response to whole-cell mechanical loadings. The project focuses on the keratin network of intermediate filaments and it will take advantage of various epidermal keratinocyte lines with mutations in keratin, plectin and desmoplakin.  The project will combine mechanical stimulation of living cells by  Atomic Force Microscopy and traction force microscopy, and it will include the development of advanced image quantification approaches for data aquisition and analysis.