Calcium- und Redox Research

Funded by SFB1027 and SPP1710

Store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) controls many vital cell functions and is one of the most important calcium routes in cells. The main components of SOCE are the three ORAI channels on the plasma membrane and their activators STIM1 and STIM2, which are located in the endoplasmic reticulum.

The mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) complex is responsible for calcium transport through the inner mitochondrial membrane. MCU regulates the mitochondrial calcium homeostasis and thus cellular bioenergetics.

We are currently investigating the role of ORAI and MCU calcium channels in the immune system and in cancer.

Funded by IRTG1816 and SPP1710

Redox (reduction-oxidation) processes and signals are critically involved in many physiological and pathological processes. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), as central biological redox regulators, are most often generated by mitochondria and NADPH oxidases in cells.

In order to understand the biological impact of cellular redox regulation, it is essential to identify and quantify redox signals and alterations with a maximal precision and sensitivity.

To achieve this, we use

• Genetically encoded fluorescent redox biosensors
• Epifluorescent, confocal and light sheet microscopy
• Electron spin resonance and fluorescent dyes
• Electrochemical methods.
• Redox biochemistry techiques

We are currently investigating the role of redox signals in the cardiovascular and immune systems.

Funded by SFB1190

Organelle morphology, dynamics and communication are essential parameters that control cellular function. Mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) play a central role in this context and their communication is an important determinant of cancer pathobiology.  However, the molecular players and signaling mechanisms involved are poorly understood.

We are currently exploring the interplay of mitochondrial contact sites, calcium and redox signals in the pathobiology of melanoma of the skin.