Research group Henning Stahlberg

Structure and function of membrane protein systems

Our research group is investigating biological membrane systems from the atomic structure of individual membrane proteins to the cellular context of the system.

The structure of the cAMP-regulated MloK1 potassium channel has been reconstructed from individual particles.

Biological membranes consist of a lipid bilayer into which membrane proteins are incorporated and perform a wide range of functions in our bodies.

Key functions of membrane proteins in our cells

Membrane proteins are responsible, for example, for supplying our cells with essential energy, nutrients, water and salts and for expelling other molecules, which are not required, from the cells. These import/export functions have to be adjusted precisely to the needs of the cell. Quite a number of membrane proteins work in teams. Membrane proteins also have a role in cell-cell communication, cell division, and in defending a cell from bacterial or viral attack.

Correlative microscopy at different magnifications

We are researching the structure and function of individual membrane proteins and systems of membrane proteins with different microscopes. We combine light and electron microscopes of various types to obtain a comprehensive picture of the specimens at different standard magnifications. For this purpose, we are developing new methods of specimen preparation and systems biology analysis.

Method development and improved imaging procedures

Using high-resolution cryoelectron microscopy, our group is investigating the structure of ion channels and membrane transporters. We are working on improved imaging procedures in electron microscopy. And finally, we are developing and implementing computer algorithms for high resolution 3D reconstructions of protein images as isolated membrane-bound particles.