Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Institut für Biologie

Infection Biology

 

Image Title
profile-image

General Microbiology

Head: Prof. Regine Hengge

 
Research focuses on signal transduction networks and gene regulation in nutrient-limited non-growing, but highly stress-resilient bacteria and bacterial biofilms. In particular, molecular functions of second messengers such as cyclic-di-GMP in orchestrating bacterial multicellularity and its emergent properties are studied. Furthermore, we collaborate with designers, material scientists and cultural historians in interdisciplinary projects.
Image Title
profile-image

Molecular Microbiology

Head: Prof. Marc Erhardt

 
Bacteria use a complex macromolecular machine, the so-called flagellum, to move in liquid environments. Flagella-mediated motility is also important for the pathogenicity of many pathogens such as Salmonella. We employ genetic engineering, biochemistry and fluorescent microscopy techniques to understand the regulation, self-assembly and protein export mechanisms of this fascinating nanomachine.
Image Title
profile-image

Molecular Parasitology

Head: Prof. Kai Matuschewski

 
Eukaryotic pathogens, e.g. protozoa and helminths, are integral parts of ecosystems, and >50% of all recent animals adopted a parasitic life style. A molecular understanding of the mechanisms that drive arthropod-borne transmission, parasite stage conversion, and immune evasion are central for innovative evidence-based strategies for drug and vaccine development.
Image Title
profile-image

Molecular Genetics

Head: Prof. Christian Schmitz-Linneweber

 
We are investigating the genetic and molecular basis of nuclear-organellar interactions in plants and apicomplexan parasites. Specifically, we study novel eukaryotic RNA binding proteins used by the cell to manipulate chloroplast and mitochondrial RNAs - essential processes for setting up the respiratory chain and the photosynthetic machinery.
Image Title
profile-image

Plant Evolution and Biodiversity

Head: Prof. Susann Wicke

 

We study interactions between plant parasites, their hosts, and the abiotic environment using experimental-genetic and evolutionary-ecological methods to understand the feedback loops driving parasite-host-environment adaptation. The lab develops resources to identify pests from environmental samples and engages in forest genetics research. We also actively commit to the conservation of native plants through citizen science projects.