Molecular Genetics

The field of Molecular Genetics at ttz Bremerhaven is based on four pillars under the umbrella of applied research:

General information

  • Molecular Genetics offers a wide variety of platform technologies for fast, efficient and highly specific detection and quantification of nucleic acid sequences (DNA/RNA). It permits the reliable identification and typification of micro-organisms and of animal and plant types, including genetic and natural mutations.
  • In micro fluidics, bacteria, allergens and chemical compounds of water and other liquids are isolated and detected with the aid of antibodies. With the right method, reliable detection is also possible for difficult applications with complex matrices or for particularly weak analysts.
  • Development of new ideas and concepts to accelerate and safeguard work-flow procedures and processes.
  • Improvement of efficiency by adjusting procedures, unique and special types of investigation, and sampling of small-scale batches.



Food

  • Detection of human pathogenic bacteria, spoilage pathogens or hygiene indicators (e.g. Enterobacteriaceae).
  • Identification of fish species or allergens within a few hours.
  • Rapid verification via Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using genetic fingerprints specific to the species level or to groups of related species.
  • Detection of marginal levels of contamination in liquids such as milk or water Micro fluidics are able to catch and enrich contaminants with antibodies through biological activation of the surfaces of fine channel structures.



Healthcare

  • Discovery and detection of resistances in bacteria. Through changes in the genome, these bacteria display new characteristics. A widespread problem is multi-resistant/methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus bacteria, which cause infections in hospital patients and where antibiotics do not work. In order to limit this problem, differentiated proof of the bacteria and a fast method of investigation are necessary.
  • Verification of genetic changes in human cells via Polymerase Chain Reaction. Verification is already possible from an early stage, meaning that patients can be treated promptly.



Maritime resources

  • Investigation of the composition (genetic fingerprint) of fish meal for sustainable aquacultures.
  • Rapid test (four hours) for the verification of Hepatitis A in mussels. With this method, it is even possible to identify sub-species and to determine their number in a sample.