Use cases

We are collaborating with the DECIDE consortium (CRC 1583), which aims to investigate infectious diseases comprehensively. Within their research, infectious diseases are thoroughly studied, addressing the challenges posed by these conditions. The project explores various facets of infectious diseases, focusing on understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern their progression.

The DECIDE consortium aims to uncover critical decision points within the host that influence the course of infectious diseases. These decisions include containment versus active infection, acute versus chronic infection, and localized versus systemic dissemination. Through extensive research, DECIDE aims to identify molecular mechanisms that can inform novel prevention and treatment strategies for infectious diseases, fostering innovation in the field.

We are actively engaged in collaboration with the ReTune consortium (CRC TRR 295), funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). ReTune is dedicated to "Treating Motor Network Disorders through Neuromodulation." Through the use of magnetic and electrical impulses to influence neuronal networks, the consortium aims to alleviate motor deficits associated with various neurological conditions. By delving into the dynamics and functionality of brain networks, ReTune seeks to develop precise, demand-driven neuromodulation systems. These systems would activate solely when disease symptoms manifest, offering a promising avenue for enhancing the treatment of brain disorders and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

We are supporting the Biofabrication research community (CRC TRR 225), which explores biofabrication's systematic application. The ultimate goal is to produce functional human tissue models. Biofabrication employs automated 3D printing processes to construct hierarchical cell-material constructs, facilitating the development of tissue models with functional properties. These models hold great potential as alternatives to animal testing, aiding pharmaceutical, cancer research, and regenerative therapies.

The first phase focused on material and process development, with an emphasis on cell survival during printing. The second phase intensifies the integration of material, method development, and tissue model construction, addressing cell behavior beyond survival. The project comprises three areas: Biotints, Methods and Techniques, and Biofabricated Models, fostering a foundation for advancing biofabrication research.

We are actively collaborating with the Collaborative Research Centre Transregio 221 (CRC TRR 221) project, which focuses on innovative immune modulation strategies. CRC TRR 221 aims to separate Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) from Graft-versus-Leukemia (GvL) effects, ultimately enhancing the safety and effectiveness of allogeneic hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Allo-HSCT, a curative treatment for high-risk leukemia, lymphoma, and hematopoietic deficiencies, relies on donor hematopoietic stem cells and donor T cells to eliminate residual patient hematopoietic cells. While potent GvL effects are critical for curing hematologic malignancies, they can trigger GvHD, where donor T cells attack non-hematopoietic tissues. CRC TRR 221 explores immune modulation strategies to bolster GvL responses while mitigating GvHD, advancing the potential of allo-HSCT in patient care.

We are promoting RDM within the C-I Interfaces project (CRC 1525), which explores the complex interplay between inflammation and cardiac pathophysiology. Recent research highlights the significant impact of inflammatory and immunological mechanisms on cardiac health, including myocardial infarction repair, cardiac remodeling, and heart failure progression. These mechanisms vary with context and time, making them challenging to study. The consortium aims to investigate these interfaces in myocardial diseases and bridge the gap between immunology and cardiology. By developing immune-based diagnostics and therapies, spanning from mice to humans, we aim to enhance cardiovascular treatment. This collaborative effort will advance our understanding of cardiac diseases, potentially leading to improved patient care.