Institute of Biological Information Processing (IBI)

The function of every cell and every organism crucially depends on the dynamic interactions between biological macromolecules and their correct three-dimensional structure. Faulty interactions and misfolded structures ultimately lead to disease and aging. Our goal is to understand these interactions and to determine the three-dimensional structures of the protein complexes involved in crucial cellular processes, preferably at atomic resolution. In addition, we are developing novel modes of action and compounds for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and neuropathic pain.

We investigate how cells and cell assemblies communicate with each other by exchanging chemical and electrical signals. One of our main focuses is on signal processing in the human brain.

Throughout the human body all cells, including brain cells, are permanently subject to mechanical signals like strain, force, and topography. At the same time, they themselves generate forces and modify their environment. We are investigating this interplay in order to gain a deeper understanding of how neural tissues form and how they communicate and function. This research contributes to enhancing the informative value of in vitro experiments and developing knowledge-based therapies for diseases.

We investigate the connection between biological and electronic systems, among other things for the production of highly sensitive sensors. These can be used, for example, to detect pollutants or develop implants to replace destroyed sensory cells.

Many biological functions are based on highly specific interactions between two molecular units. But in most biological systems, such as the cytoplasm, proteins and other biopolymers are present in such high concentrations that collective phenomena, which arise from interactions between a large number of molecules, play an important role. With our research we aim at quantitatively understanding these phenomena and their influence on biological functions on a molecular level.

The function of every cell and every organism crucially depends on the dynamic interactions between biological macromolecules and their correct three-dimensional structure. Faulty interactions and misfolded structures ultimately lead to disease and aging. Our goal is to understand these interactions and to determine the three-dimensional structures of the protein complexes involved in crucial cellular processes, preferably at atomic resolution. In addition, we are developing novel modes of action and compounds for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases and neuropathic pain.