Avinash Kumar

This study uses optical tweezers to measure SNARE complex intermediates and energetics during membrane fusion, revealing how membrane forces, lipids, and regulatory proteins control the process.

This study shows tomosyns inhibit synaptic depression by binding to VAMP2-containing template complexes and preventing SNAP-25 association, rather than competing with VAMP2 for SNARE complex assembly.

The paper measures the mechanical properties of NompC gating springs and finds nonlinear compliance that may regulate mechanotransduction sensitivity.