focuses on processes coupled to the translation of mRNAs on cytoplasmic ribosomes, i.e. membrane protein targeting and the assembly of macromolecular complexes.
Research Alliance 2.1: Membrane Protein TargetingResearch Alliance 2.2: Organized Protein Assemblies
Research Alliance 2.1: Membrane Protein Targeting
investigates how cytoplasmic ribosomes select the appropriate targeting machinery for membrane protein precursors.
How does proper targeting ensure the maintenance of cardiac Ca2+-release units or of the neuronal membrane fusion machinery?
The membrane proteins under investigation will allow us to determine the contribution of targeting deficits to the pathogenesis of inherited neurocardiac disorders.
Moderator
Prof. Dr. Ruben Fernandez-Busnadiego
Institute of Neuropathology
University Medical Center Göttingen
Robert-Koch-Str. 40
37075 Göttingen
ruben.fernandezbusnadiego@med.uni-goettingen.de
Research Groups
Research Alliance 2.2: Organized Protein Assemblies
studies the structural, biophysical, and biological characteristics of protein assemblies that feature prominently in excitable cells, targeting both physiological and pathological situations.
We address the cytoskeleton, a composite biopolymer network of actin filaments (microfilaments), microtubules and intermediate filaments and secondly focus on pathological protein aggregation and assembly. If one or several of the systems involved in the proteostasis network fail, as for example during stress or aging, proteins misfold, resulting in protein malfunction, uncontrolled aggregation and accumulation, or toxicity.
Such conditions are associated with a variety of human disorders affecting the heart and the brain.
Moderator
Prof. Dr. Tiago F. Outeiro
Department of Experimental Neurodegeneration
University Medical Center Göttingen
37073 Göttingen
tiago.outeiro@med.uni-goettingen.de