Research in the "Molecules and Cells" theme aims to explain how the properties of living cells emerge from the functions and interactions of their constituent molecules. Our research spans many scales from molecular structure through to cells and their interactions. Using a broad range of methods, including microscopy, biochemistry, molecular genetics, x-ray crystallography and mathematical modeling we investigate key cellular processes including the cell-cycle, cell and organelle motility, and metabolism.
Our research provides fundamental knowledge, which helps to understand the molecular basis of diseases and the virulence of animal and plant pathogens. Furthermore, research in this theme has led to the discovery of new enzymes for biotechnology and new strategies for molecular diagnostics.
