Desmosome regulation in organoid models for mucosal and epidermal barrier dysfunction (A05)

• Subject Area: Cell Biology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 547068789

A05 develops organoid models of epidermal and mucosal desmosomal dysfunction using genetically modified mouse models. Tissue-specific phenotypes of mutant organoids will be comparatively investigated using electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, 3D whole-body imaging, (single-cell) proteomics, and transcriptomics. Furthermore, we are establishing a biobank of organoids from healthy donors, IBD, and pemphigus patients.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 425: Desmosomal dysfunction in epithelial barriers (DEFINE)
• Applicant Institution: Philipps-Universität Marburg
• Project Heads: Kai Kretzschmar, Ph.D.; Privatdozent Dr. Michael Meir