Gerd Illing

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About

Gerd Illing is a structural biologist whose work has advanced the field of structural genomics, with a particular focus on integral membrane proteins from pathogenic bacteria. His most-cited paper, "An integrated approach to structural genomics" (2000, 59 citations), established a framework for high-throughput protein structure determination, combining bioinformatics, expression screening, and crystallography to accelerate the discovery of novel protein folds and functions. Illing’s research has been instrumental in understanding the molecular mechanisms of *Helicobacter pylori*, a gastric pathogen responsible for ulcers and cancer. In his 2007 study "Expression screening of integral membrane proteins from *Helicobacter pylori* 26695" (14 citations), he tackled the challenging task of expressing and purifying membrane proteins, which constitute about one-fourth of the pathogen’s proteome. These proteins are critical for *H. pylori*’s survival in acidic environments and its ability to colonize the stomach. By developing efficient expression systems, Illing has enabled subsequent structural and functional studies of these elusive targets. His work bridges genomics and structural biology, providing essential tools for drug discovery and deepening our understanding of host-pathogen interactions.