Remodelling lipid membranes with DNA/RNA nanotechnology (P15)

This CRC project engineers membrane-remodeling DNA and RNA origami structures. While DNA origami is added externally, the RNA origami will be genetically encoded and endogenously expressed in cells. In particular, membrane-binding RNA aptamers will be developed and used to anchor a membrane-bending RNA origami on the nuclear membrane of mammalian cells. We thus provide a biophysical toolbox to engineer membrane remodeling events tailored to the needs of the CRC and ultimately be applicable as membrane-remodeling therapeutics.

DFG Programme Collaborative Research Centres

Subproject of SFB 1638:  Cellular membrane remodelling – how changing form creates function

Applicant Institution Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg

Project Head Professorin Dr. Kerstin Göpfrich