Molecular Endocrinology

Description

The unravelling of the human genome and proteome opens new avenues for defining the complex cellular interactions of the neuroendocrine and immune system, and its relevance for disease. \- Defining basic mechanisms and clinical implications of cellular crosstalk in endocrine tissues. The group analyses, in a comprehensive manner, the components and mechanisms of this cellular crosstalk by defining the involved receptors, signalling pathways, transcription factors and gene expression profiles. Using the adrenal gland as a model the group has demonstrated that tissue integrity, input from the nervous system or intercellular communication is essential for the normal functioning of the gland and the adequate respond to the homeostatic challenges of stress. They have demonstrated that intact intraglandular cellular interactions are required for normal development, differentiation and zonation of the adrenals and that alterations in intercellular communication, local production of neuropeptides, growth factors and cytokines, and aberrant expression of ectopic receptors are implicated in adrenal hyperplasia, autonomic hormone production and tumour formation. \- Overweight and obesity and diabetes are increasing at an alarming rate worldwide, reaching alarming epidemic proportion in the westernized world. Obesity is the major risk factor for lipid abnormalities, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus type 2 and certain types of cancer. It is well established now that adipose tissue, besides its role in the deposition and release of fatty acids, is a highly active endocrine organ. The group is interested in this endocrine function of adipose tissue and its involvement in the development of obesity associated diseases, especially the influence on the stress system, myocardiocytes and pancreatic beta-cells. They have developed new strategies for the regeneration of metabolic disease and the cure of diabetes. The group is the only active centre for islet TX in Germany testing new replacement strategies. Based on the group's previous findings they will use integrated approaches in both research areas using a wide array of techniques. This is a logical consequence of their previous work and a translation of basic science into regenerative and clinical medicine. \- How does cellular crosstalk translate into differential intercellular signalling, transcriptional regulation and gene expression? \- How is cellular crosstalk reflected in the process of development and stem cell biology? \- How does systemic inflammatory diseases e.g. sepsis influence intraadrenal cellular crosstalk? \- What can we learn from transgenic animal models? \- New therapeutic strategies based on a thorough understanding of this form of integrative medicine. (Description adapted from working group website: see link above)