Prof. Michael Knop Systems biology, meiosis and signal transduction

Cells and organisms are assemblies of molecules that constitute their functionality by a delicate yet robust network of heterogeneous and spatially structured systems that are in a constant state of dynamic flux. Mainly the dynamic assembly of lipid membranes and filamentous protein networks provides the spatial organization of cells. These structural elements are not only regulated by a large network of signalling molecules, but in themselves constitute a spatial platform for signalling whose significance we are only starting to understand. In our laboratory we conduct research along three main directions:

(i) Investigation of signalling networks involved in cell differentiation processes (Mating and meiosis) in yeast
(ii) Investigate dynamic regulatory protein properties on genome wide scales
(iii) Investigation of the molecular processes involved in genome recombination in meiosis

We investigate important questions in these areas using a broad spectrum of methods, ranging from genetic screens, advanced microscopy and biochemistry to mathematical modeling and stochastic computer simulations. The development of new methods and microscopic techniques/instrumentation to study protein functions in living cells is a fundamental aspect of this work .

Detailed information on the project can be found at
www.zmbh.uni-heidelberg.de/knop/default.shtml