The Institute of Cell Biology performs cutting-edge research in molecular and cell biology to study a wide variety of topics that include Host Pathogen Interactions, Systems Biology, Epigenetics, Organelle Biogenesis and Developmental processes.
November 3, 2025
11:15 − 12:15
ICB Room C161, Baltzerstrasse 4, 3012 Bern
Prof. Dr. David Brückner | Biozentrum, University of Basel
Invited by Prof. Dr. Olivier Pertz
Lab on a Chip
We present a method for low-cost, open-source microfabrication that combines techniques from consumer 3D printing with maskless photolithography on standard fluorescence microscopes. This approach enables fast proptotyping of custom devices within a day, achieving micrometer precision without clean room facilities. We show diverse applications, such as patterning surfaces with subcellular precision, microfluidic systems, and chambers to confine C. elegans.
PLOS Pathogens
The eukaryotic parasite relies on the faithful inheritance of its singular mitochondrial genome, known as kinetoplast DNA (kDNA), to survive and proliferate. This genome is physically tethered to the flagellar basal body by the Tripartite Attachment Complex (TAC), a unique cytoskeleton-organelle connection. Here, Dr. Clirim Jetishi and colleagues use proteomics, RNAi, and ultrastructure expansion microscopy to identify TAC53 as a novel and essential TAC component.
PLOS ONE
The latest study from the Malaria Lab focuses on developing the next generation of malaria vaccines using genetically attenuated parasites (GAPs). By deleting two crucial genes for Plasmodium liver stage development, we demonstrate that our PbHscB-PbMei2 double-knockout (2-KO) parasite line results in a complete developmental arrest at this critical stage. This groudbreaking discovery paves the way for future vaccine designs targeting the Plasmodium liver stage, thereby preventing the symptomatic blood phase of malaria.
Melanie Schmid*, Raphael Beyeler*, Reto Caldelari, Ruth Rehmann, Volker Heussler and Magali Roques
Baltzerstrasse 4 3012 Bern
