Karin Busch

Prof. Karin Busch is a faculty member at the University of Münster, leading the Busch Lab: Cellular Bioenergetics within the Institute of Integrative Cell Biology and Physiology. Her research focuses on mitochondrial dynamics, bioenergetics, and spatiotemporal organization of membrane protein complexes, particularly in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) systems. She actively participates in interdisciplinary initiatives such as the Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre and supervises the CiM-IMPRS Graduate Program.

Her work combines advanced microscopy techniques (e.g., superresolution imaging, FLIM) to study mitochondrial ultrastructure and function in live mammalian cells. Key research themes include mitochondrial supercomplex assembly, cristae architecture, and their roles in cellular adaptation to metabolic stress and aging. Recent studies highlight the impact of mitochondrial dysfunction on neurodegenerative diseases and cardiac physiology.

Prof. Busch collaborates extensively with groups like CALMOS and the Biophysics group/Osnabrück, refining fluorescent reporter systems and quantitative analysis tools. Her lab also explores mitochondrial signaling pathways, such as NF-κB activation via LUBAC platforms, linking mitochondrial biology to immune responses and cellular stress.

Her advising and grant activities include mentoring over 20 graduate students and postdocs, many of whom have contributed to high-impact publications. Notable projects include studies on senescent cardiomyocytes, viral myocarditis models, and mitochondrial dynamics in neural cells.