Division of Molecular Biology
We study the structure and function of chromatin. We want to understand how the molecular organization of genetic information in the cell nucleus controls essential cell processes.
The genetic information of living organisms, their genome, is stored in cells in the form of DNA. In the cell nucleus, the DNA is organized together with proteins in a structure called chromatin. Every use of DNA, such as the transcription of genes or the detection and repair of DNA damage, is closely linked to the chromatin organization.
The structure of chromatin determines which genes are active in a cell. Different cell types, each with their characteristic tasks, differ in the pattern of their chromatin modifications. These chemical marks control the gene expression programs and thus the activity of genes.
Chromatin structures can be dynamic and plastic in places, allowing cells to respond to changes in metabolism, physiology or the environment. Other chromatin structures are 'epigenetically' stable and preserve the identity of cells in a changing environment. At the Department of Molecular Biology, we are particularly interested in the molecular relationships underlying the complex interplay between the dynamics and stability of chromatin.
More information on the Molecular Biology website.
Research Groups
Division Head
© J. Greune / LMU
Prof. Dr. Peter Becker
- Acting Chair BMC -
Biomedical Center
Großhaderner Straße 9
82152 Planegg-Martinsried
Molecular Biology at the BMC
What is it that molecular biologists actually do? In this video, Peter Becker explains what the invisible library in the cell nucleus is all about, how proteins determine the fate of cells and how he and his team track down the diversity of life.
13 | 9 Mar 2023 | ©BMC, LMU