Research Areas
Life would not be possible without hundreds of catalytically active proteins called enzymes. These highly efficient catalysts accelerate even very difficult chemical transformations, thereby directing and running the complex metabolic network in each cell from bacteria to humans. To elucidate enzyme structure and function, and also to develop novel or improved biocatalysts, we apply the strategy of "directed molecular evolution". Our approach consists of cycles of gene mutation, selection of very active variants using genetically modified bacteria, and amplification and characterization of the selected winners.
To demonstrate the usefulness of this strategy, we investigate, for instance, diverse examples of actual and presumed chorismate mutases, and thereby make many –sometimes surprising– discoveries, which led, e.g., to a revised classification of these enzymes. This model system also teaches us how to upgrade evolutionary approaches to overcome technical hurdles. Both the new insights into fundamental processes of biocatalysis and the methodological improvements are expected to enhance our ability to shape enzymes for novel uses.
For more information on the specific research topics, please see our publications.