Characterization of the membrane scaffold complexes that tune photoreceptor neuron function (A23+)

• Subject Area: Cell Biology
• Term: from 2017 to 2019
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 184695641

This project focuses on the question how scaffold protein complexes shape the functional properties of a specialized Drosophila photoreceptor cell type. In order to achieve high polarization sensitivity, the morphology of photosensitive membranes becomes reorganized, and the Rhodopsin molecules are precisely arranged. Studies combine a molecular approach (microscopy, spectrometry, biochemistry) and the organismal level (physiology and behaviour).

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 958: Scaffolding of Membranes: Molecular Mechanisms and Cellular Functions
• Applicant Institution: Freie Universität Berlin
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Mathias Wernet