AG Center for Centrosomes and Cytoskeleton Biology

>> Research focus

Our research focuses on dissecting how centrosomes and cilia function as molecular switches in determining homeostatic control of neural stem cells. We have identified centrosomes and cilia biogenesis principles during the last decade, applying powerful Drosophila genetics combined with genetic engineering and biochemistry.

We now wish to understand how these structures critically regulate neural stem cells' functions in human brain development and degeneration. To this end, first, we bioengineer stem cells to generate self-assembling 3D brain-like tissues of brain organoids.

We use these tissue-engineered brain organoids as a model system to decipher cilia's general rules as a molecular switch in brain development, cell physiology, neurodegeneration, and tumorigenesis, with a particular emphasis on translating basic research into the identification of molecular targets of human diseases.

To image these events, we develop and apply super-resolution imaging tools such as 3D SIM and STED microscopy complemented with electron microscopy.

>> Publications

Our publications can be found here.

>> Homepage

A more detailed homepage can be found here.