Cell Biology of Tissue Aging
Video Description
Electron microscopy-resolved intestinal crypt, being the region of the intestine homing stem cells. Shown are stem cell surfaces and nuclei (green) located at the crypt base and crypt edge (blue), Paneth niche cells (yellow) and progenitor cells (grey).
We started our group in July 2024 at the vibrant MPI-CBG in Germany, where we are thriving to answer the following question.
How Organs Change with Age
As we age, our bodies undergo many changes — one crucial being a decline in the function of stem cells that support our organ function.
The Scharaw lab investigates how the decline of stem cell function affects the body’s ability to constantly renew cells of our organs. A key focus of the lab is the role of the endomembrane system — a network within cells that acts as a series of transportation hubs, allowing stem cells to transmit signals. With age, changes in this system can impair stem cell function.
We are studying how the organisation of the endomembrane system influences communication between stem cells and their neighboring cells, and how this impacts organ renewal. By understanding these processes, we aim to pave the way for new strategies to support organ health as we age.
Recent News from the Lab
03.2026
Spring Symposium in Ulm
Sandra gave a keynote lecture in the Aging and Degeneration session at the Spring Meeting of the International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine in Ulm. Thank you for the invitation, great time and intriguing exchange about science!
03.2026
Lab retreat at Schloss Ringberg
The Scharaw, Grapin-Botton and Gerri lab went together on lab retreat at the beautiful Schloss Ringberg in Bavaria. We had a stimulating exchange about our science, careers and big questions in the field. Team building was also ensured with the fun hike we did to the Tegernsee and the mountains.
02.2026
New Volume EM machine arrived
It is here! We welcomed the new Volume Electron Microscopy machine at MPI-CBG. What an exciting time for us to explore cell biology in full tissues volumes!
Scharaw Lab 