Gene Expression

Cell Proliferation

The transcription of DNA is the initial step in the realization of the genetic information. The basal transcription machinery, regulatory transcription factors and the influence of chromatin on transcriptional activity as well as the transport of the RNA transcripts are investigated.

Proliferation, differentiation and cell death are regulated by a complex network of events. Factors which play key roles in this network at the level of signal transduction and gene expression are investigated, including cell cycle and apoptosis regulating transcription factors and their activators and inhibitors.

Tumor Biology

The understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to the development of cancer are essential for the development of effective therapies. The analysis of tumorigenesis at the IMT is focused on pathways regulating cell proliferation and their cooperation in tumorigenesis. This entails investigations of the regulatory mechanisms and signaling pathways governing different biological processes, including cell cycle control, apoptosis, differentiation and senescence.