Simply grasping a coffee cup needs fine motor coordination with the highest precision. This required performance of the brain is an ability that can also be learned and trained. Prof. Kelly Tan's research group at the…

Stem cells and their niche in the adult mammalian brain Neural stem cells continuously generate new neurons in restricted areas of the adult mammalian brain. Adult stem cells reside in specialized niches that support their…

Starting immediately or as per agreement How does life emerge from molecules and cells? This is the central question that motivates us. With curiosity and passion, we investigate the entire spectrum ranging from the atom to…

Like human beings, every cell in our body tries to ward off death as long as it can. This is particular true for a specific type of immune cells, called T-lymphocytes, or T cells for short. These cells keep viruses,…

When pathogens invade our body the immune system is put on alert. The body’s immune cells are recruited to the site of infection and an inflammatory reaction is initiated to rapidly eliminate the invaders. Some pathogens,…

All organisms need energy to live. We get energy from various components of our food. Our body uses a part of this energy directly and stores the rest. While glucose serves as an immediately available energy source, fats are…

Cell signaling and dynamics in bacterial growth, adaptation, and persistence Our studies aim at understanding the molecular and cellular principles involved in the growth, differentiation and behavior of bacterial cells. We…

Walking, breathing, or writing – these movements would not be possible without our muscles. The instructions are given by the nerves that communicate with the muscles through neuromuscular junctions. Damage to or loss of…

Studying Biology in Basel Biology is the key science of the 21st century. The University of Basel offers a variety of degrees in biology, including a Bachelor of Science in Biology with three specializations and six…

In the course of evolution, the human body has developed diverse strategies to protect itself from harmful substances. In the intestine, the placenta and also in the blood-brain barrier are tiny transport proteins, which…