Like a clew: computer simulation of the DNA inside the human cell nucleus
Our department regards itself as a bridge between basic research in experimental molecular biology and methodologically oriented theoretical research. We are developing theoretical and computer-assisted methods enabling us to predict the spatial structure of biological macromolecules. Our aim is to use structural characteristics of molecules for deducing their biological functions. For example, we are analyzing genomic sequence data to identify genes and elucidate the functions of cancer-relevant sections of the genome. A further focus of our work is the investigation of interactions between biomolecules using biophysical simulation techniques. In doing so, we are collaborating with numerous experimental groups at DKFZ.