Defining amyotrophic lateral sclerosis associated with mutations in the NEK1 gene
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease. Genetic changes in the NEK1 gene are among the most common genetic causes of ALS (NEK1-ALS). However, the clinical picture and molecular mechanisms of NEK1-ALS are largely unexplored. In this project, the team will therefore comprehensively characterize patients with NEK1-ALS employing clinical analysis, MR imaging and wet biomarkers.
Transcription factor RelA as a therapeutic target in kidney and heart fibrosis
Cellular senescence describes a complex cellular program which can activated by various stress factors. It is thought that the accumulation of senescent cells promotes the progression of organ scarring. The molecular mechanisms of cellular senescence in kidney and heart scarring are poorly understood. In this project, the role of the transcription factor RelA as a possible initiator of senescence in kidney and heart scarring will be investigated. In addition, the study will reveal potential new therapeutic approaches to eliminate senescent cells.
The Genomic and Clinical Basis of cardiac Arrest without structural heart disease in Germany: The GenCBAG Investigators
Diagnostic approaches, genomic insights and treatment concepts of patients suffering from sudden cardiac death in absence of a structural heart disease are limited in Germany. In the present project we aim to study the clinical characteristics, genetic background, and the underlying pathomechanisms of this cohort. Using human cardiomyocytes generated from patient specific induced pluripotent stem cells and in vivo models we aim to understand the pathomechanisms of the underlying diseases and the functional background of several gene variants.
Development and clinical translation of novel imaging biomarkers in diagnostic neuro-oncology
The research group of PD Dr. Daniel Paech focuses on the development and clinical translation of novel imaging biomarkers for diagnostic neuro-oncology. The project aims at improved characterization of tumor tissues in the human brain by using new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques in combination with artificial intelligence (AI) analysis methods. Furthermore, this work could aid early therapy response assessment in patients with brain tumors.
Molecular and clinical characterization of long-term effects in cancer survivors
Due to enormous medical progress, more and more patients can be healed from cancer. Unfortunately, cancer therapies often lead to severe late effects that can be associated with a pre-aged phenotype. However, we know little about the underlying cellular processes. In our project we aim to determine various measures of aging in the blood cells of young and middle-aged cancer patients and cancer survivors. Results will be linked to clinical and patient reported quality of life data.