Research focus

Compartmentalization of biological processes is a hallmark of eukaryotic cells. The cellular function relies on the cellular compartments’ interaction, communication, and cooperation. Mitochondria and peroxisomes are central metabolic hubs in almost all eukaryotic cells that are functionally coupled by an exchange of small molecules and have even been found to utilize common protein constituents. The elucidation and understanding of organelle biogenesis and their communication expand the frontiers of cellular biology.

Consequently, our research aims to:

• Elucidate the mechanism and structure of the mitochondrial presequence translocase-associated motor complex (PAM).
• Characterize the crosstalk between peroxisomes and mitochondria, and how these functional ties influence and are influenced in the context of human disorders.
• Develop methods and tools to study and modify mitochondria and peroxisomal biogenesis and function.