The main objective of our work is understanding the function of the circadian rhythm in the photo- and thermoperiodic control of flower induction. To observe whole plant behaviour we analyse kinetics of stem extension rate and leaf movement in Chenopodium spec. using fully automated electronic devices. Changes in the pH-topography and in intracellular Ca2+-concentration in apical tissue are studied as possible secondary messengers using confocal laser scanning microscopy. In addition we study surface membrane potentials as part of a proposed frequency coded communication in plants.


We are currently developing a modular system for automated biomonitoring of environmental pollutants. For biomonitoring of cellular responses and for tissue engineering a micro-bioreactor system integrating micro-sensors for a variety of physiological parameters is being developed.