Exchange, insights, and new connections
Several times a year, nanodiag BW invites its members to the Cluster Colloquium – a platform for exchange, fresh ideas, and interdisciplinary networking. The format provides space for scientific discussion, insights into ongoing projects, and dialogue on future collaborations.
The most recent meeting focused on looking beyond the cluster’s own boundaries: Scott Scholz, Markus Meier, and Elisabeth Bobkova from the spin-off DynaPore of the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg were invited as guests.
In their presentations, the researchers introduced fascinating approaches from the fields of membrane, protein, and nanopore research.
The most recent meeting focused on looking beyond the cluster’s own boundaries: Scott Scholz, Markus Meier, and Elisabeth Bobkova from the spin-off DynaPore of the Max Planck Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology in Marburg were invited as guests.
In their presentations, the researchers introduced fascinating approaches from the fields of membrane, protein, and nanopore research.
Scott Scholz presented how the mechanosensitive nanopore MscL can be re-engineered into a sensor capable of detecting specific molecular bindings. Through targeted modifications, changes in ionic current through MscL can serve as a signal for molecular docking events – a concept that could, in the long term, play a role in pathogenic bacteria detection.
Markus Meier demonstrated how a genetic in vitro system can be used to study and precisely modify the Sec translocon – a key element in cellular protein synthesis and transmembrane protein transport. The method allows high-throughput analyses and opens up new possibilities for engineering protein translocation mechanisms.
Both talks vividly illustrated how fundamental research and applied technology development can intertwine. In the ensuing discussion between representatives of the Max Planck spin-off DynaPore and the nanodiag BW Future Cluster, numerous potential points of connection emerged – particularly in the areas of biosensing, cell-free protein synthesis, and technology transfer.
“It is essential for us to keep track of national and international developments and to strengthen collaborations with key players in our field. The presentations by the DynaPore representatives were highly inspiring. The in-depth discussions that followed were enriching for both sides and opened up promising perspectives for future cooperation.”
As always, the Colloquium also offered space for open exchange and networking – a central pillar of the cluster’s philosophy. Because:
The cluster is more than the sum of its parts.
