Structural biology

Our research focuses on the analysis of structure-function relationships in enzymes. We combine experimental techniques such as X-ray crystallography with computational methods and develop new algorithms for the analysis and structure-based prediction of enzyme properties and for the design of optimized enzyme variants.

We study protein function at the molecular level, particularly in relation to lipid metabolism. Our research aims to understand the structure-function relationships of these key proteins and to elucidate their role in energy production, synthesis and signal transduction. Dysregulation of these proteins is associated with diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and lipid metabolism disorders. We use X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy as well as biochemical and biophysical methods to characterize the proteins and their interactions.

Our research focuses on the characterization of medically relevant proteins such as S-layer proteins, crystalline protein shells of many bacteria and archaea. Using an integrative structural biology approach, we analyze the structure and function, e.g. of the lactobacilli S-layer and its binding to human receptors. We also use prediction methods to calculate symmetric assemblies such as the S-layer proteins.

My research focuses on understanding the behaviors of biomolecules. In my group, we use structural bioinformatics, data mining and artificial intelligence, including the "Catalophore" approach, to analyze the structural, functional and thermodynamic properties of biological systems. This method allows deep insights into biological processes that are of great importance in drug and protein research.

Our main research goal is to develop effective antimicrobial compounds to address the unmet medical need related to antibiotic resistance. We study their mechanisms of action in microorganisms and their effects on the host using compounds from a variety of sources, including humans, animals and plants. In particular, the study of structure-activity relationships serves as a basis for the development of peptide-based therapeutics for diseases associated with bacterial infections.