Research Topics

Our research focuses on post-transcriptional gene regulation in T cells. We are investigating small non-coding RNAs and RNA-binding proteins, endo- or exoribonucleases as well as complexes of RNA-modifying enzymes that control the development or biology of T cells including quiescence, activation, differentiation, effector function and memory formation.

In our mechanistic approaches we try to understand the molecular interactions of trans-acting factors with RNA and with effector proteins that regulate mRNA decay or efficiency of translation. We evaluate the impact on immune responses in genetic models and primary T cell cultures.

Our current global approaches address the molecular and cellular context by defining all binding sites of selected RNA-binding proteins and miRNAs as well as regulatory modifications in the transcriptome. Conversely, exploring all RNA-binding proteins as well as individual regulation and physiologic importance we aim at deciphering the network of redundant, cooperative or antagonistic contributions.