FOR 1036: Mechanisms, Functions and Evolution of Wnt-signalling Pathways

本研究单元侧重于Wnt信号网络的分析。这种调节模块是胚胎发育所必需的，并负责许多人类疾病。由Wnt型生长因子引发的信号事件是与生物学和医学研究高度相关的竞争性研究领域。研究Wnt信号传导不同方面的八个小组加入了研究小组。参与小组隶属于海德堡大学（T。Holstein，zoology; S. Ozyk，zoology; S. Hardt，Cardiology; H. Steinbeisser，人类遗传学），卡尔鲁厄大学（D。Wedlich，zoology; D. Gradl，动物学）和德国癌症研究中心（DKFZ）海德堡（M。Boutros; C. Niehrs）。研究单位解决了以下问题：Wnt蛋白是如何修饰，分泌的，以及它们如何形成活性梯度？Wnt信号级联的组成部分如何在细胞内外相互作用？Wnt信号分子在器官形成和重塑中的作用是什么？研究单位采用结构功能方法，这需要从生物化学，结构生物学，细胞生物学和生理学的技术武器库。成员们提供了一套非常互补的专门知识和实验模型。在这方面，研究股成员使用的动物/胚胎模型（水螅/线虫;果蝇、非洲爪蟾和小鼠）特别重要。

This Research Unit focusses on the analysis of the Wnt-signalling network. This regulator module is essential for embryonic development and is responsible for a number of human diseases. The signalling event triggered by Wnt-type growth factors are competitive research filed with high relevance for biological and medical research. Eight groups, which work on different aspects of Wnt-signalling joined the Research Unit. The participating groups are affiliated with the University of Heidelberg (T. Holstein, zoology; S. Özbek, zoology; S. Hardt, Cardiology; H. Steinbeisser, human genetics), the University of Karlruhe (D. Wedlich, zoology; D. Gradl, zoology) and with the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) Heidelberg (M. Boutros; C. Niehrs). The Research Unit addresses the following questions: How are Wnt-proteins modified, secreted and how do they form activity gradients? How do components of the Wnt-signalling cascade interact inside and outside the cell? What are the roles of Wnt-signalling molecules in organ formation and remodelling? The Research Unit uses a structure function approach, which requires an arsenal of techniques from biochemistry, structural biology, cell biology and physiology. The members contribute a very complementary set of expertise and experimental models. In this context the animal/embryo models (Hydra/Nematostella; Drosophila, Xenopus und mouse) used by members of the Research Unit are of particular importance.