Key research areas
1. The role of cytokines in immune defence (Group Scheller)
2. Synthetic cytokine signaling (Group Scheller)
3. Ras-proteins in tumorigenesis (Group Ahmadian)
4. Sirtuins in aging (Group Piekorz)
Biochemistry and molecular biology describe the chemical processes in an organism which are significant for the functioning and regulation of metabolic processes. Medical basic research and – together with the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I – the training of students in the field of biochemistry are the key areas of the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II. The lectures, seminars and practicals on offer provide students with basic know-how in biochemistry which is required for qualified diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive medical activities.
The Institute considers that promoting the next generation of scientists is a particularly important task. Thus, within the context of lectures, students are to be provided with insights into current interdisciplinary fields of research. Furthermore, the Institute prepares interested students for later scientific activities by mentoring their theses and medical dissertations. As a key component in cultivating the next generation , the Institute promotes the early integration of graduates and young scientists into the faculty’s interdisciplinary research structures.
The Institute’s interest in research has long since been geared to the investigation of hormone and neurotransmitter effects. Modern analytical methods are used to research the molecular mechanisms of cellular signal transmission routes and the molecules involved. By means of the resulting findings on the molecular control elements of cell functions, the Institute contributes towards the process of understanding the development of illnesses. In parallel, approaches towards developing new forms of therapy are also followed up on the basis of the results of analyses. Together with clinical cooperation partners and the researching pharmaceutical industry, the Institute is working on innovative agents to treat inflammatory diseases.
Patient care
The Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II is a theory-oriented institute and therefore has no direct contact with patients.
Research and teaching
The Institute’s key research area is in the field of molecular biochemistry and cell biology and, in this particular area, the transduction of cell membranes. Particular attention is paid to the mechanisms of such transductions which control the movement of inflammation and tumour cells in the organism. This means that findings can be gained in the field of the development and / or maintenance of inflammatory diseases. Thus, conclusions can also be drawn with regard to the mechanisms involved in the spread of tumours.
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