Annika Guse

Prof. Dr. Annika Guse is a Professor at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), leading the Guse Lab. Her research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of coral-algal endosymbiosis using the sea anemone Aiptasia as a model system. This work bridges cell biology, ecology, and evolution to study symbiotic interactions critical for coral reef ecosystems. Her lab investigates how symbiotic partnerships between cnidarians and dinoflagellates are maintained, their responses to environmental stress (e.g., coral bleaching), and evolutionary adaptations.

Research themes include symbiont acquisition, nutrient exchange, immune evasion, and host signaling pathways (e.g., mTOR). The lab employs interdisciplinary approaches combining molecular techniques, organismal biology, and field studies. Key contributions include insights into symbiont nuclear transformations, photoreceptor evolution in cnidarians, and mechanisms preventing symbiont expulsion during bleaching events.

Prof. Guse’s work addresses urgent environmental challenges facing coral reefs due to climate change. Her lab also explores the broader implications of symbiosis in evolutionary diversification and ecosystem stability. Collaborations involve fieldwork with corals and comparative studies with phylogenetically relevant organisms.

Publications highlight discoveries in symbiotic cell biology, host-symbiont immune interactions, and genomic resources for Aiptasia. While no specific awards are listed, her contributions are evident through high-impact journals and model system innovations. Advising and student training details are not explicitly provided in available texts.