Aging and cell death

The Madeo team is investigating the molecular basis of healthy aging. We use multifactorial OMICS data from current clinical studies (e.g., fasting studies) and appropriate cell biological methods to experimentally test the causality of clinical data. Using various model organisms, we investigate cellular processes of healthy aging (e.g. polyamine synthesis, autophagy) in order to develop new, innovative therapeutic options for age-related diseases.

Our group is interested in the interplay between metabolism and autophagy. We use molecular biological, biochemical and cell biological methods to investigate the metabolic control of autophagy, particularly in the context of cell aging. Using different model systems (yeast, flies, mice) up to humans, we investigate in particular the influence of lipid metabolism on autophagy.

We are investigating regulated cell death in different yeasts in order to achieve different goals. On the one hand, we use baker's yeast(S. cerevisiae) as a model organism to understand processes of cellular aging and to search for age-protective agents. On the other hand, we are investigating pathogenic yeasts (in particular C. albicans) in order to specifically activate regulated cell death pathways and identify new antifungal agents.

Our research on the aging process focuses on the sulphur-containing amino acid methionine, with its involvement in cellular processes such as autophagy, C1 metabolism, polyamine biosynthesis and the cell's own _H2Sproduction. In addition, we are interested in the development of multicellular yeast structures and their use in aging and cancer research.