Overview

Our research is based in the field of Chemical Biology. Our goal is to create tools to study spatially organized RNAs in living cells.
We mainly use the following methods:

   º  protein engineering

   º  synthetic organic chemistry and biotransformations

   º  nanotechnology

Background and Significance

Specific localization of mRNAs to certain subcellular regions exists in various cell types ranging from bacteria to neurons and represents a mechanism for regulating gene expression with excellent spatial-temporal control. In neurons, local protein synthesis in dendrites is required for many forms of synaptic plasticity. Studying mRNA localization, transport, translation, and degradation in subcellular regions will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of how cells and organisms function. To study the dynamics of mRNA distribution and transport, there is an increasing demand for universal probes suitable for visualization of mRNAs in living cells.
To achieve our goals, we are following two main approaches:

Protein engineering of RNA-binding proteins

Contact Anna Rath or Andrea Rentmeister for more information.

Protein engineering of RNA-modifying enzymes

Contact Daniela Schulz or Andrea Rentmeister for more information.

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Additional Projects

  ° We study the cellular uptake pathways of nucleic acids. Contact Stephanie Schuhl or Andrea Rentmeister for more information.

  ° We try to change the substrate specificity of the A-domains of non-ribosomal peptide synthetases. For a better understanding of subsrtrate recognition, we are also crystallizing the adenylate forming domains ofnon-ribosomal peptide synthetases (Collaboration with G. Christiansen at ÖAW and P-Cube at DESY).