Molecular Sensory Systems

The department of Molecular Sensory Systems studies signal processing in cells. We want to understand how sensory stimuli are detected by cells and converted into a cellular response. Signal transduction in cells is a fascinating topic that is studied by many scientists throughout the world. The indepth understanding of this complex process necessitates the use of biological, chemical, and physical techniques. Therefore, biologists, chemists, and physicists work closely together in the department. 

The processing of sensory signals

Sensory cells convert a stimulus into an electrical signal. In the retina, photoreceptor cells detect light and transduce this information into an electrical signal through a series of biochemical reactions. This signal is then relayed to visual centers in the brain. In the nose, olfactory cells generate an electrical signal in response to an odor. This signal encodes the quality and strength of the olfactory stimulus. Our research aims to reveal the molecular mechanisms underlying sensory transduction. To this end, we study the structure, function, and interaction of proteins involved in these processes. In particular, we study ion channels that are involved in the generation of electrical signals. These ion channels include the cyclic nucleotide-gated (CNG) channels and the hyperpolarization-activated and cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels, which are also known as pacemaker channels. 

Chemosensation in sperm

The success of fertilization depends on the ability of motile sperm to locate the  egg. Sperm cells swim with the help of a flagellum and their swimming behaviour is determined by chemical attractants that are released by the egg. What are these attractants and how do sperm detect these attractants? The detection is based on mechanisms similar to those involved in the detection of odors and light by olfactory neurons and photoreceptors, respectively. Moreover, similar signaling molecules are involved. We study the signaling pathways underlying chemosensation in sperm of sea urchins and humans. In particular, we are interested in the receptors, cellular messengers and ion channels that endow sperm with such exquisite sensitivity.

Optical switches

In collaboration with the Leibniz Institute for Molecular Pharmacology in Berlin, we develop optical switches that are used in the photonic control of receptors and ion channels. These compounds are, in fact, "Trojan horses" that are "smuggled" into the cell. On exposure to light, the compounds release the signaling molecules. With the help of these Trojan horses, cellular signal pathways can be resolved with great precision, both temporally and spatially.  

Further information

If this introduction has aroused your interest in our research, you can find more detailed information by clicking on the individual topics:

HCN and CNG Channels

The Sense of Smell

Chemosensation in the Sperm

Fluorescence Spectroscopy