Department of Cellular Physiology
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Meyer Group

Calcium-binding proteins

meyer_teaser3Ca2+ is fundamental to cellular signaling. Cells, neurons in particular, are constantly shaping and interpreting their intracellular Ca2+-distributions. Ca2+-binding proteins are involved in these processes as Ca2+-buffers and Ca2+-sensors. We focus on the EF-hand Ca2+-binding protein calbindin-D28k and related proteins. In a systemic approach we are using general and conditional null-mutant mouse strains to understand the impact of these proteins on animal behaviour and cellular physiology. We are developing a conditional activation-mutant for calbindin-D28k. We currently establish organ and cell culture systems to clarify localisation and functions of these proteins (e.g. subcellular localisation and traffic, interaction partners, neuroprotection). (Tabita Khan, Carmen Floriani, elective course students, Michael Meyer)

Medical education, Medical Faculty management

Scientifically based evaluation and development of new concepts of medical student education is essential in this  increasingly interdisciplinary and complex  field of student education.

Our current focus is on the interface between physics and medicine. Addresse-specific experiments have been introduced into the physics lab course for medical students and their impact on student's learning and understanding is being analysed in a field study using concept maps. We are currently trying to support and enhance this approach by the development of a dynamic addressee-specific information platform. We hope this will facilitate learning according to the individual student's needs, e.g. knowledge, learning needs and type, interest. (Michael Plomer, Andre Scherl, Michael Meyer)