Dr. Peter Franz

Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
Gebäude I3, Ebene 02
Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1
30625 Hannover

Tel: +49-511-532-3703

Mail: franz.peter@mh-hannover.de

Research Focus

Our group is interested in understanding the molecular mechanisms driving neurodegenerative diseases, with a central focus on Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). SMA is a severe neuromuscular disorder caused by the loss or functional deficiencies of the Survival of Motor Neuron (SMN) protein, essential for RNA metabolism, motor neuron maintenance, and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton.

By utilizing a combination of state-of-the-art biophysical and biochemical techniques, including TIRF-Microscopy, Confocal Microscopy, Microscale Thermophoresis, Fast Solution Kinetics, and advanced resonant and non-resonant spectroscopy approaches, we aim to get insights into the structural, dynamic, and functional properties of the SMN protein and its associated macromolecular complexes at molecular and cellular level. We investigate how mutations, post-translational modifications, and interactions with actin and actin binding proteins affect SMN function and stability, leading to motor neuron degeneration and progressive muscular atrophy in SMA patients.

Our interdisciplinary approach provides a quantitative and mechanistic framework to guide the development of novel therapeutics that stabilize SMN function, enhance its cellular activity, and modulate its interactions with critical binding partners—ultimately aiming to mitigate disease pathology and improve clinical outcomes of SMA.

In collaboration with Prof. Tsiavaliaris (Cellular Biophysics), we focus on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the selective inhibition of different myosin classes by small-molecule compounds, with the long-term aim of developing new therapeutic approaches to target myosins in various diseases.

We are seeking motivated students to join one of our ongoing research projects (see Current Projects). Opportunities are available for bachelor’s and master’s theses as well as PhD projects and laboratory internships. If you are interested, please send an informal inquiry to franz.peter@mh-hannover.de.