Feb. 26, 2010

When Molecules Leave Tire Tracks

When "mother nature" does the engineering, molecules can self-organize into complex structures - a first step in the formation of membranes, cells and other molecular systems. Some classes of molecules are capable of arranging themselves in specific patterns on surfaces. This ability to self-organize is crucial for many technological applications, which are dependend on the assembly of ordered structures on surfaces. However, it has so far been virtually impossible to predict or control the result of such processes. Now a group of researchers led by Dr. moreDec. 02, 2009

Living Cells

Novel insight into the three-dimensional networks of living cells was gained within the colaborative research project "3D-Tissue Screen" funded by the BMBF (National Ministery of Education and Research, Germany). With a new microscope for live-cell imaging, the scientists were able to observe complex dynamic processes in cardiac muscle cells at an unprecedented speed. This lays the foundation for a better understanding of cardiac diseases. A second microscope setup helped explore the mechanisms of Alzheimer's more precisely than before. more