Molecular Structural Biology

Bacterial and Viral Pathogens

HZI Campus

Successfully combating infectious diseases requires a deep understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms. Structural biology plays a key role in this regard, providing essential insights into the structure, function and interactions of biological macromolecules down to atomic resolution. Using state-of-the-art methods – including X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and advanced computer-aided methods for structure prediction – it enables the detailed elucidation and analysis of the three-dimensional structures of proteins, nucleic acids and other biomole-cules. Structural biology thus makes an important contribution to infection research by providing precise insights into virulence factors, host-pathogen interactions and the mecha-nisms of pathogenesis and immune defence, thereby significantly supporting the develop-ment of novel anti-infectives and vaccines.

Head

Prof Dr Dr h.c. Dirk Heinz

Head of Department

+49 531 6181-3700 E-Mail

Our research

The Department of Molecular Structural Biology is focussing on highresolution structural elucidation of large macromolecular complexes and machines that are important for infection processes. State-of-the-art methods such as single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and X-ray crystallography are used for this purpose. The structural biology analyses are complemented by a broad spectrum of molecular biological, biochemical and bio-physical methods.

In close collaboration with research groups at the HZI, the current focus of the work lies on novel CRISPR/Cas nucleases, capsid polysaccharide transporters and bacterial natural product megasyntases. Another important goal is the development of innovative pathoblockers that specifically inhibit bacterial virulence factors in order to control infections more effectively and reduce the development of resistance. In addition to synthetic agents and natural products, mini-proteins developed using AI-supported protein design methods are also increasingly being used as potential inhibitors.