After the leave of absence of the director Prof. Peter Gruss research is conducted by three independent groups. They share a common interest in the field of molecular developmental biology.
One research topic deals with the molecular genetic mechanisms of cortical regionalization and layer formation during embryonic and postnatal development of the mouse. Using large scale Affymetrix DNA microarray analysis and in-situ hybridisation, several potential candidate genes were identified, which might be important for corticogenesis. Currently, the function of selected genes is analyzed by classical and conditional gain and loss of function mutagenesis experiments. The roles of the transcription factors Pax 6 and Emx 2 and their downstream signaling cascades during corticogenesis represent additional topics of research (Stoykova, Chowdhury).
A research group associated with the Medical Faculty of the University of Goettingen and with the department is supported by the Helmut Storz Foundation professorship. This group focuses on the regulatory mechanisms for the differentiation of dopaminergic neurons in the mouse midbrain.The aim is to identify specific factors responsible for the differentiation of embryonic stem cells into dopaminergic neurons (Mansouri).
A department associated group studies molecular principles of pattern formation during gastrulation and neurulation. A special focus lies on the coordination of cell cycle and embryonic development through proteins like geminin (Kessel).
Director
Peter Gruss - presently on leave of absence
temporary head of the department: Gregor Eichele
Contact
Dr. Michael Kessel
Phone: (+49 551) 201-1560
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