First Name
Georg
Middle Name
Last Name
Künze
Organization
Leipzig University
Job Title
Junior group leader
Email
georg.kuenze@uni-leipzig.de
Research Summary
Molecular modeling and numerical simulations for the elucidation of membrane proteins, integration of NMR spectroscopy data and enzyme engineering
Research Description
Research in the Kuenze lab is exploring the structural and dynamical properties of proteins using combined computational and experimental approaches. We develop and apply molecular modeling methods and molecular dynamics simulations with the following major goals in mind: (1) Determination of the structure and dynamics of proteins and protein complexes from sparse experimental data, (2) Elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of signaling in membrane proteins and how they can be targeted by small-molecule drugs, (3) Development of new enzymes with improved properties for biotechnological applications. In-silico experiments are coupled with biophysical experiments, which we pursue in our laboratory or in collaboration with other scientists. Our experimental approaches rely on reporter group techniques (e.g., NMR spectroscopy), which help us to measure distances over several nanometers in proteins and capture the intricate structural flexibility of proteins. Current applications focus on ion channels, GPCRs, amyloid-forming proteins, and plastic-hydrolyzing enzymes.
Research Keywords
Membrane proteins, NMR spectroscopy, enzyme engineering
Working with Rosetta Since
2016