The group has a long-standing interest in the origins of the red cell viscoelastic properties and developing novel methods for the experimental determination of the membrane viscosity and membrane elastic moduli. Recently, in collaboration with colleagues from King's College and Imperial College London, we have developed a new method based on the analysis of the thermal fluctuations (i.e. the Brownian motion) of the membrane. This project offers the opportunity to use this innovative method, in combination with our state-of-the-art multiphoton imaging facility, in order to investigate the molecular origins of membrane elasticity. The project will advance understanding of the role of the cell membrane in diseases ranging from diabetes to atherosclerosis and should lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches.