Cross-Platform Molecular Systems

Lead(s):

• Katharina Landfester

Focus areas:

• Integration of Artificial Cells & Nanocarriers
• Biophotocatalysis & enzymatic cascades
• Multi-technique characterization: cryo-TEM, proteomics, sensing
• Translational applications (drug delivery, immune therapy)
• Nanocarriers and sustainability
• Nanocarriers for agriculture

This integrative research line connects our platforms of nanocarriers, artificial cells, and light-driven catalysis to create adaptive molecular systems with life-inspired functions. By combining nanocarriers with artificial cells, we explore synergies that enable controlled communication, signaling, and delivery. Biophotocatalysis, photoregeneration, and enzymatic cascades introduce external and internal triggers that expand the adaptive capabilities of these systems. Translational projects in drug delivery and immunotherapy demonstrate how adaptive molecular design can be harnessed for biomedical impact. Beyond medicine, nanocarriers also open perspectives for sustainability, where biodegradable and bio-based systems—such as lignin-derived carriers—support greener agricultural solutions. To capture the complexity of these cross-platform systems, we rely on multi-technique characterization, ranging from cryo-TEM and proteomics to sensing approaches. Together, these efforts integrate chemistry, biology, and physics into molecular systems that bridge toward life-like adaptivity, sustainable technologies, and medical as well as agricultural relevance.