The Center for Membrane Biochemistry and Lipid Research is dedicated to translating fundamental research into clinical applications, with the ultimate goal of leveraging insights for the prevention and treatment of various disorders. At the core of life's foundation, lipids play a pivotal role as structural components in cell membranes and signaling molecules, often implicated in the development of dysfunctions and diseases.

Our researchers aim to comprehensively and systematically understand metabolic diseases, including obesity and diabetes, by uniting diverse scientific disciplines. Employing a range of methodologies, such as analytical, biochemical, biophysical, and computational techniques, alongside disease models and clinical studies, we delve into the intricate realm of lipid function, dysfunction, and interactions with other molecules. This interdisciplinary approach positions us to swiftly and reliably identify the molecular underpinnings of diverse diseases.

Operating at the intersection of scientific advancement and clinical application, our center embraces a translational approach. From preventive measures for metabolic diseases to uncovering novel disease mechanisms and developing/applying innovative therapies, we strive to contribute across the spectrum of medical domains.

The Center for Membrane Biochemistry and Lipid Research is currently home to the research groups of Prof. Dr. Ünal Coskun, Prof. Dr. Maria Fedorova, Prof. Ingmar Schäfer, and Dr. Michal Grzybek.
The groups of Ünal Coskun and Michal Grzybek focus their research on membrane biochemistry in the context of cellular signaling and are particularly concerned with lipid-protein interactions, which they investigate using an interdisciplinary approach that combines cell biology and synthetic biology as well as protein biochemistry, structural biology and biophysics.
Maria Fedorova's research group “Lipid Metabolism: Analysis and Integration” is dedicated to the complexity and dynamics of lipidomes, combining high-resolution mass spectrometry and bioinformatic approaches. Another focus is the development and application of mass spectrometric methods to investigate the epilipidome and the role of modified lipid molecules in cellular signaling processes.
Ingmar Schäfer uses structural biology as an approach to decipher molecular mechanisms. Using structural biology tools, insights are gained into the molecular mechanisms of cellular signal transduction, their results and their regulation. Prof. Schäfer uses single particle cryoEM as the main structural technique, but also structure prediction tools based on machine learning.