Laboratories

Cell Engineering

The use of proteins, nucleic acids or complete cells as genetically encodable and engineerable molecular tools becomes increasingly important. One of the most prolific areas is the construction of labels and sensors for in vivo and in situ imaging (e.g. fluorescent protein based).

The research group for Molecular Engineering focuses on enabling this rich variety of tools for opto-acoustic (OA) imaging. OA is an emerging methodology bridging light excitation and ultrasound detection towards deep tissue imaging. The physical concept of this technique requires exclusively tailored labels aiming, contrary to their counterparts in fluorescence imaging, for a maximization of the non-radiative decay channel. Moreover, the deeper penetration depth of OA and the potential existence of strong absorbers (e.g. blood) call for an eye for infrared applicability.

Regarding the sensor side we adapt existing molecular sensors for OA usage and aim for innovative small molecule sensors to study neuronal functioning. Due to the close relation of fluorescence and OA imaging such novel sensors are mutually beneficial to both modalities. Beyond that we push and exploit the modularity of building blocks (e.g. label and receptor) towards a combination of visualization, interaction and downstream effect.

Conclusively we are interested in the detailed functioning of our tools on a molecular level pushing our understanding towards true top-down-engineering approaches.

The group combines methods of screening-based and rational (computational) molecular engineering with biophysical and in vivo validation of the tools as well as structural elucidation of their mechanism. We draw expertise from structural-, molecular-, cell- and chemical biology as well as biophysics.

Relevant publications

See a list of all publications on the ORCID profile of Andre C. Stiel

 

Our projects are primarily funded through