An analysis platform consisting of four components offers a significant expansion of biomedical analysis possibilities at Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (H-BRS). A binding analysis device based on microscaled thermophoresis contributes an innovative approach to characterising interactions involving proteins. A multi-mode detection device for UV/Vis, fluorescence and luminescence allows, among other things, a variety of enzyme activity tests and imaging studies in new or improved form. An automated patch clamp system and a system for solid-supported membrane (SSM)-based electrophysiology for high-resolution transporter studies provide the equipment basis for expanding research into membrane transport processes and other molecular mechanisms of disease development.

Project management at the H-BRS

So called ketone bodies acetoacetic acid and (R)-3-hydroxy-n-butyric acid (bOHB) are compounds which provide the brain with fatty acid-derived energy, mainly after fasting. In recent years it has become obvious that ketone bodies can have more biological functions than just being energy carriers. Our project is devoted to such roles of ketone bodies that may also be important for pathogenesis and treatment of diseases.

Project management at the H-BRS

Our research group studies rare genetic defects in metabolic pathways. We are aiming at a better understanding of pathomechanisms underlying such inborn errors of metabolism. We continuously offer internships and thesis projects focused on analytical biochemistry (for example on the development of diagnostic tests) and on the characterization of metabolic diseases. Phase 2 reactions increase the water solubility of compounds and thus facilitate their excretion. This can be achieved by conjugation of a coenzyme A (coA)-activated acid for instance with an amino acid molecule.

Project management at the H-BRS

Individual variants in the DNA sequence (i.e. the linear sequence of the 4 DNA building blocks, the so-called bases) are called polymorphisms and can influence the function of genes and thus contribute to the clinical manifestation of diseases or influence their course and therapy. In addition, polymorphism patterns can be so characteristic for each individual that they also enable the forensic identification of perpetrators and victims on the basis of a DNA trace.

Project management at the H-BRS

Our research group studies rare genetic defects in metabolic pathways. We are aiming at a better understanding of pathomechanisms underlying such inborn errors of metabolism. Many metabolic diseases result in early death or severe handicaps if they are not treated in an adequate manner. Early diagnosis is a prerequisite for therapeutic approaches, which may enable normal development in some of those diseases.

Project management at the H-BRS

Our research group studies rare genetic defects in metabolic pathways. We are aiming at a better understanding of pathomechanisms underlying such inborn errors of metabolism (IEM). Many metabolic diseases result in early death or severe handicaps if they are not treated in an adequate manner. Early diagnosis is a prerequisite for therapeutic approaches, which may enable normal development in some of those diseases.

Project management at the H-BRS