What brings Bacteria into shape?
Round, oval, spiral... the shape of bacteria can be very diverse and is crucial for their fitness. A team of researchers led by Max Planck Fellow Prof. Martin Thanbichler has discovered how a specific protein determines the shape of spiral bacteria.
Luca Schulz receives Birnstiel Award
The postdoctoral researcher is being honored for his work at the interface of evolutionary biology and biochemistry
On the Path to Symbiosis
Microorganisms often form communities in which they exchange metabolites. But how does mutualism develop beyond self-interest? Scientists led by Prof. Victor Sourjik have now discovered how cooperation between microbes can evolve.
A Hybrid Arrowhead against Autoimmune Diseases
In autoimmune diseases, the cell's immunoproteasome is overactive. Until now, it has not been possible to inhibit it without interfering with other mechanisms. Researchers led by Professor Helge Bode have now succeeded in manipulating the production of a natural bacterial product to create a new, more targeted drug.
A Taste for CO2
The work by researchers led by Dr Johannes Rebelein challenges the current understanding of nitrogenases and highlights their importance as a starting point for sustainable bioproduction.
