Research | Dept. Landfester

We design molecular assemblies that evolve into cell-like systems—polymersomes, coacervates, nanoorganelles, or protocells—that capture essential features of living matter. These artificial cells are adaptive: they reorganize their membranes, regulate transport, and respond to stress or signals. By integrating catalytic cascades, light-driven processes, and photobiocatalysis, we create systems with life-like reactivity and responsiveness. With advanced fabrication and 3D printing, these concepts are scaled into hydrogel scaffolds and bioinks, enabling tissue-like architectures and new platforms for life-inspired materials.  

We develop nanocapsules that adapt to their biological environment. Through protein corona modulation, targeting strategies, co-delivery, and stimuli-responsiveness, our carriers can sense and respond to cellular cues. They are more than delivery vehicles—they are adaptive interfaces that interact dynamically with proteins, membranes, and cells. Our dynamic biointerfaces subgroup provides the analytical and mechanistic foundation, using cryo-TEM, proteomics, and advanced interfacial chemistry to unravel how nano–bio interactions shape therapeutic performance.  

This integrative research stream bridges the two pillars. It connects artificial cells and nanocarriers, translating adaptive design principles into biomedical contexts. By combining insights across scales, we create evolving systems that both model life-like processes and deliver innovative therapeutic functions.