The laboratory is localized in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Cologne. The group has a longstanding expertise in the understanding of cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions relevant to different aspects of tissue remodeling and repair. Research involves a broad range of in vitro and in vivo models to analyze the function of diverse types of skin cells. These include a number of cellular systems (monolayer cultures, complex co-cultures), but also the investigation of genetically modified mouse models. In cooperation with other investigators the group also studies cellular communications in Drosophila and Zebrafish. State of the art technologies for molecular and cell biology are in place (FACS analysis, microarray analysis, time labs video microscopy, confocal microscopy) or are accessible through the Service Laboratory of the CMMC or close collaborations with other groups at the Campus of the University (MPI for Biology of Ageing, MPI for Metabolism Research, Excellence Cluster Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases).

Currently the group performs research as Principal Investigator in the following research programs:

1. ‣Collaborative Research Center 829
   Molecular Mechanisms regulating Skin Homeostasis
   SFB 829
   

1. ‣Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne
   Center of Molecular Medicine Cologne
   

1. ‣Research Unit FOR 2240
   (Lymph)Angiogenesis and Cellular Immunity in Inflammatory Diseases of the Eye
   Forschergruppe 2240
   

1. ‣The Cologne Cluster of Excellence on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-associated Diseases
   CECAD
   
   

2. ‣Research Unit FOR 2599
   Tissue type 2 immunity: Mechanisms of induction and regulation
   Forschergruppe 2599
   
   

3. ‣Understanding the complications of wound healing in patients with recessive dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa
   Exploring innate immunity in wound healing complications in RDEB patients