GRK 2550:  Dynamic regulation of cellular protein localization

• Subject Area: Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: since 2020
• Website: Homepage
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 411422114

Biological systems are astonishingly adaptable and subject to constant change. Dynamic protein (re)localization and regulation of protein targeting represent central mechanisms to allow cellular adaption to a multitude of intracellular and extracellular signals and stresses. Indeed, recent work has revealed a high-level of plasticity in the subcellular localization of a large fraction of the proteome in response to different stresses. These observations have raised many questions regarding the underlying mechanisms that we will address in the RTG research program: 1. Under which conditions do proteins localize to new cellular sites; are these changes reversible; is it relocalization or targeting of newly synthesized proteins? 2. Which machineries and mechanisms drive relocalization; which posttranslational modifications are involved? 3. What are the functional consequences of relocalization; do compartments acquire new functionality; does the relocalized protein facilitate the same process or does it perform a new function? 4. What are the cellular and physiological outcomes of the protein relocalization; does the relocalization help to adapt to external and internal cues that drove the relocalization in the first place? In our projects, we aim not only to understand how localizations of selected proteins are controlled, we will also develop novel tools to modulate these processes and employ proteome-wide approaches to test for the influence of different cues on localization changes. We combine our scientific program with a thorough research-training curriculum. This educational program aids in establishing a common theoretical platform for all doctoral candidates and promotes strong scientific exchange, and the acquisition of transferrable skills. Thus, we ensure that our doctoral candidates will expand their knowledge not only of their specific research project but will benefit from the expertise and equipment of researchers working on other aspects of the same central questions.

• DFG Programme: Research Training Groups
• Applicant Institution: Universität zu Köln
• Spokesperson: Professor Dr. Jan Riemer
• Participating Researchers: Professor Dr. Jürgen Dohmen; Professorin Dr. Stephanie Kath-Schorr; Professorin Dr. Natalia Kononenko; Professor Dr. Marcus Krüger; Professor Dr. Thomas Langer; Dr. Orsolya Leidecker; Professorin Dr. Ines Neundorf; Professorin Dr. Carien Niessen; Professorin Dr. Elena Irene Rugarli; Professor Dr. Hans-Günther Schmalz; Professor Dr. Günter Schwarz; Professorin Dr. Kathrin Ulrich