The PSI Laboratory of Biomolecular Research studies the structure and dynamics of proteins on the atomic level by state-of-the-art structural biology.
Lab News & Scientific Highlights
New insights into human vision
How the human eye is optimised for daylight: PSI researchers reveal the three-dimensional structure of cone opsins in their dark states for the first time
Blood pressure-lowering drug with a light switch
From off to on: PSI researchers have observed how the potency of a blood pressure medication can be switched using light.
How microtubules take part in cellular signal processing
Researchers at PSI have investigated on the molecular level how the cytoskeleton transmits commands within the cell. Their findings could provide the medical field with new options for intervention in the event of malfunctions within the organism.
How botox enters our cells
Researchers at PSI have identified structural changes of the bacterial neurotoxin botox that are important for its uptake into nerve cells. This finding could allow a more targeted use of botox in medicine.
On the way to light-controlled medicine
PSI researchers have elucidated the structure of special photoreceptors.
Unlocking the secrets of proteins
This year’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry goes to three researchers who have made a decisive contribution to cracking the code of proteins – important building blocks of life. However, developing applications from this knowledge, for example in medicine, requires research institutes such as PSI.
Slipping a note to a neighbour: the cellular way
Study reveals how drug molecules bind in channels between neighbouring cells, changing intercellular communication.
A bionanomachine for green chemistry
PSI researchers have characterised a unique enzyme from bacteria that enables an important chemical reaction.
Highlights – PSI research in 2023
A look back over the past 12 months.