The Division “Molecular Biology of the Cell II” is studying the molecular mechanisms controlling cell division and gene activity. Research work is focused on understanding the complex processes by which signals reach the cell nucleus in order to regulate, i.e. activate or silence, genes. To this end, researchers need to elucidate signaling pathways and analyze the function of certain proteins called transcription factors. These proteins regulate gene activity depending on the physiological state of the cells and during their phases of division and rest. In addition, researchers of this division are investigating how chemical changes in the hereditary substance, so-called epigenetic control mechanisms, regulate the activity of genes. The aim is to understand the processes leading to a disruption of controlled gene activity and, thus, to the malignant transformation of cells or genetic disorders.