Single Molecule Fluorescence Coupled Optical Tweezers

• Subject Area: Basic Research in Biology and Medicine
• Term: Funded in 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 557909369

High-resolution imaging of molecular interactions, particularly through structural biology tools, is essential for obtaining atomic-scale information. Over the past decade, such tools have revolutionized the design of novel antimicrobials and were pivotal for understanding diseases. Additionally, they have facilitated the development of novel biotechnological applications, such as enzyme engineering. Simultaneously, the field of physical analysis has expanded into dynamic imaging at nanometer resolution, driven by advances in single-molecule force measurements. These methods provide unprecedented insights into molecular interactions that traditional structural biology approaches cannot. This proposal aims to combine the extensive biochemical expertise of numerous groups at the University of Regensburg specializing in various aspects of RNA and DNA biology with the growing capabilities of single-molecule dynamic force and fluorescence measurements. This integration will pave the way for a new understanding of biological processes and offer innovative methods for targeting these interactions.

• DFG Programme: Major Research Instrumentation
• Major Instrumentation: Einzelmolekül Optische Pinzette mit konfokalem Fluoreszenzmikroskop
• Instrumentation Group: 5090 Spezialmikroskope
• Applicant Institution: Universität Regensburg
• Leader: Professorin Neva Caliskan, Ph.D.