Fischer group

The overarching research topic of the Fischer group is genome regulation—that is, how genes in the human genome are turned on and off—and the role that tumor suppressors and oncoproteins play in this process. We focus on three closely related topics:

• gene regulation by the tumor suppressor p53,
• the control of gene expression during the cell cycle,
• and the control of cell growth by the transcription factor RFX7.

By combining these areas of focus, we aim to uncover fundamental regulatory mechanisms that play a role in different cell types and to better understand how disrupted gene regulation contributes to cancer development.

Our research combines biochemistry, molecular genetics, and bioinformatics. We work with human cell cultures and use modern omics technologies to comprehensively investigate gene regulation. Based on this, we create models of gene regulatory networks that show how these networks determine the fate of cells. The activity patterns of these networks act as molecular signatures that can help monitor signaling pathways in cells and develop new diagnostic methods.

Plaumann group

The research activities of the Plaumann group focus on the development of fluorinated molecular systems and spectroscopic methods for highly sensitive analysis of chemical and biological processes. Central to this work is the combination of ¹⁹F NMR spectroscopy, molecular sensor design, and supramolecular chemistry for investigating complex systems.

A major focus lies on the development of fluorinated molecular sensors for detecting physicochemical parameters and specific molecular environments. Another key aspect is the application of ¹⁹F NMR spectroscopy to biological samples, particularly biofluids, aiming at early detection of disease-related changes.

In addition, host–guest interactions are studied for controlled detection of molecular binding processes. Hyperpolarization methods (PHIP, SABRE) are used to enhance NMR sensitivity. Radiochemical approaches, including the synthesis of tritium-labeled compounds, enable the investigation of metabolic processes.