When a living cell is viewed as a system of interacting molecular networks targeted intervention using nanoscale technology can give us valuable information on function and interactions in living matter. We explore the possibilities of miniaturization of experiments to establish new methods that can be used to understand normal and distorted functions in living systems.

I want to make visible what cannot be seen: the atomic structures of the molecules that take care of the most basic processes of life. Because these molecules (proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes) are smaller than the wavelength of visible light, special methods are needed to measure their structure.

Understanding biological phenomena often requires knowledge of processes at a molecular level. The full elucidation of a molecule's function frequently demands its three dimensional structure.

In our postgenomic era, understanding of protein–protein interactions by characterizing the structure of the corresponding protein complex is becoming increasingly important. However, many protein complexes are unstable and therefore are difficult to purify.