LOLICATO | BIOCHEMIEZENTRUM DER UNIVERSITÄT HEIDELBERG (BZH)

Fabio Lolicato

Membrane Biophysics

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Our Lab delves into the intricacies of the dynamic interplay between proteins and lipids within cellular membranes. Our multidisciplinary approach combines state-of-the-art computer simulations with in vitro reconstitution experiments to uncover the mysteries that govern these complex systems.

Probing the Role of Lipids in Cellular Membranes

A fundamental question that drives our investigations is the presence of numerous lipid types in cellular membranes, even when a single lipid type can form a stable membrane. We are intrigued by the possibility that proteins may possess a distinctive lipid signature, prompting us to explore the consequences of engineering the lipid environment surrounding these proteins.

	Pore-Forming Proteins: BAX/BOK, GSDM, and FGF2 Our current focal point involves unraveling the physical-chemical properties of pore-forming proteins, with particular emphasis on BAX/BOK, GSDM, and FGF2. We aim to expand our understanding of their complex characteristics and functional roles within cellular membranes.
	Virology: Influenza A, SARS-CoV-2, and Ebola Viruses We utilize cutting-edge computer simulations to investigate the mechanics of virus entry, self-assembly, and cellular manipulation. Our emphasis is deciphering the complex transitions of viruses, particularly Influenza A, SARS-CoV-2, and Ebola, as they navigate the complex landscape of host adaptation. For more insights, refer to our recent press release: Luring the Virus into a Trap.
	Lipid Binding and Transfer Proteins Our research extends to understanding how certain proteins bind to specific lipids within the cell membrane selectively. Furthermore, we explore the dynamics of lipid transfer proteins, unraveling how proteins take and release lipids from cell membranes and how the composition of membrane lipids influences these interactions.
	Computational Structural Biology By employing advanced techniques such as docking, modeling, and molecular dynamics simulations, We refine Cryo-EM/ET, NMR, crystallography, and AlphaFold structures to understand intricate 3D biomolecular architectures and their interaction with membranes.

For more details, please visit the lab homepage: https://fabiololicato.com

Since 2024	Group Leader at the Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center (BZH)
2023 - 2024	Principal Investigator at the Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center (BZH)
2019 – 2023	Post-doctoral research in the laboratory of Prof. Walter Nickel, BZH, Heidelberg, Germany
2016 – 2020	Ph.D. in Computational Biophysics, University of Helsinki, Finland
2013 – 2015	Visiting Researcher, Tampere University of Technology, Finland
2011 – 2013	M.Sc. in Material Chemistry, University of Catania, Italy
2006 – 2011	B.Sc. in Chemistry, University of Catania, Italy

2023


	Disulfide bridge-dependent dimerization triggers FGF2 membrane translocation into the extracellular space Lolicato F#, Steringer JP, Saleppico R, Beyer D, Fernandez-Sobaberas J, Unger S, Klein S, Riegerová P, Wegehingel S, Müller HM, Freund C, Hof, M, Šachl R, ChlandaP, Vattulainen I, and Nickel W (2023). eLife. Link to the paper
	Determining the Functional Oligomeric State of Membrane-Associated Protein Oligomers Forming Membrane Pores on Giant Lipid Vesicles Singh V, Macharová S, Riegerová P, Steringer J P, Müller H-M, Lolicato F, Nickel W, Hof M, and Šachl R (2023). Anal. Chem. Link to the paper
	IFITM3 blocks viral entry by sorting lipids and stabilizing hemifusion Klein S, Golani G, Lolicato F, Beyer D, Herrmann A, Wachsmuth-Melm M, Reddmann N, Brecht R, Lahr C, Hosseinzadeh M, Kolovou A, Schorb M, Schwab Y, Brügger B, Nickel W, Schwarz U S, Chlanda P* (2023). Cell Host&Microbe. Link to the paper
	The Ebola Virus VP40 Matrix Undergoes Endosomal Disassembly Essential for Membrane Fusion Winter S. L, Golani G, Lolicato F, Vallbracht M, Thiyagarajah K, Ahmed S S, Lüchtenborg C, Fackler O T, Brügger B, Hoenen T, Nickel W, Schwarz U S, Chlanda P. (2023). EMBO J. Link to the paper
	In vivo characterization of the bacterial intramembrane-cleaving protease RseP using the heme binding tag-based assay iCliPSpy Kupke T, Götz R M, Richter F M, Beck R, Lolicato F, Nickel W, Hopf C and Brügger B. (2023). Commun. Biol. Link to the paper

For the full publication list, please visit the lab homepage: https://fabiololicato.com/publications

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2 Postdoctoral positions in MD simulations of biological membranes

Application deadline: 10/09/2024

We are thrilled to announce two openings for postdoctoral researchers specializing in Molecular Dynamics simulations of biological membrane systems. These positions are part of a newly funded consortium at Heidelberg University, SFB1638, focusing on Cellular Membrane Remodeling – How Changing Form Creates Function.

These two positions, shared between the groups of Prof. Frauke Gräter (website) and Dr. Fabio Lolicato (website), are funded for an initial period of two years (E13 100%), with the possibility of extension (2+2). The positions are based at the Heidelberg University Biochemistry Center, offering a collaborative environment with experts in membrane biochemistry, biophysics, and structural biology. With these positions, we will establish a computational life sciences hub on campus and create a technology platform to provide molecular dynamics simulation access to all consortium members. The two postdoctoral researchers will work together on the following aims.

Aim 1: Computational lipidomics and membrane sensing assays. We will provide a comprehensive computational framework to understand the critical factors that govern the interactions of biomacromolecules with membrane surfaces and their lateral partitioning within the membrane environment.

Aim 2: Developing membrane-protein force distribution analysis. We will use and develop novel computational tools to elucidate how proteins and membranes mechanically respond to membrane remodeling events and how mechanical stress regulates such biological processes.

Requirements: We seek candidates with a Ph.D. in computational biophysics, computational biochemistry, or related fields. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with molecular dynamics simulations applied to biological systems, as demonstrated by their publication record and presentations at international conferences. Preferred qualifications include experience with protein-membrane interactions, multi-scale simulations (both coarse-grained and atomistic resolution), and free energy calculations. Proficiency in using GROMACS software and building pipelines with Python is highly advantageous.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, CV, and contact details of two references in a single PDF file to fabio.lolicato@bzh.uni-heidelberg.de.
Please include the subject line name_surname_Z01_application.

Heidelberg University
Biochemistry Center (BZH)
Im Neuenheimer Feld 328
69120 Heidelberg

Office:

+49 6221 54-4181

Lab:

+49 6221 54-4746

E-Mail:

fabio.lolicato@bzh.uni-heidelberg.de

Groupleader: Fabio Lolicato

Fabio Lolicato

Membrane Biophysics

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