Rüdiger Klein

Rüdiger Klein is a Director and Scientific Member at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence, leading the Molecules - Signaling - Development department. His research spans neurodevelopment, neurodegeneration, and neural circuit dynamics, blending molecular biology, genetics, and advanced imaging.

Research Focus:

• Cell-Cell Communication: Investigates FLRT proteins and Ephrin-Eph signaling in cortical folding and axon guidance.
• Neurodegeneration: Studies protein aggregates in Huntington’s disease via collaborations with proteomics experts.
• Circuit Dynamics: Explores amygdala and spinal cord microcircuits in feeding behavior and motor control.

Scientific Contributions: Identified FLRTs as dual adhesion/repulsion molecules, elucidated Ephrin-Eph trans-endocytosis mechanisms, and characterized amygdala neurons regulating food consumption. His work combines mouse genetics, optogenetics, and X-ray crystallography.