Institute of Stem Cell Biology

The Institute of Stem Cell Biology investigates the molecular regulatory mechanisms involved in the specialization of cells of the human body. These processes are controlled by so-called epigenetic changes in the genome. Our team investigates how DNA methylation changes during stem cell differentiation, aging and tumor development. CRISPR-Cas genome editing is used to achieve targeted genetic and epigenetic changes to understand and control molecular mechanisms. Our interdisciplinary research also investigates which influence biomaterials and surface structures have on stem cell self-assembly and differentiation. In the long run, our research will help to generate cell products for regenerative medicine, better understand the aging process, and establish biomarkers for cell population composition and tumor diagnostics.

Our institute combines expertise in cell biology and epigenetics. We have intensive collaborations with hematology, biomaterials research, transfusion medicine, immunology, and aging research, among others. For students of medicine, biology, biotechnology and in the master program Biomedical Engineering we offer lectures, seminars, and practical courses. The basics of cell culture, stem cell biology and epigenetics are taught.

Short portrait of the Stem Cell Network NRW