International Graduate School of Neuroscience

Research Interests

Our focus: neurodegenerative diseases and cell biology. We are intensively and enthusiastically researching the mechanisms of the nervous system that are essential for understanding and treating neurodegenerative processes.

A core area of our research is the investigation of the potentially protective properties of steroid hormones such as progesterone or testosterone in different areas of the nervous system (CNS, PNS, ENS) that occur in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s as well as cerebral events such as stroke or reduced perfusion. In direct collaboration with the RUB clinics, we want to find out to what extent these properties can contribute to combating or mitigating such events.

We are also focusing on research into amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), where we want to use the latest techniques and interdisciplinary approaches to deepen our understanding of this complex disease and open up new treatment options.

The use of high-resolution imaging techniques (confocal laser scanning microscopy, transmission electron microscopy) in combination with modern biochemical and molecular biological analyses in close and constructive cooperation with various departments and institutes at the Ruhr University Bochum and beyond enables us to conduct translational research from the laboratory bench to the patient’s bedside. Our vision is to utilize a broad and interdisciplinary approach to gain knowledge in medicine in order to improve the health-related quality of life of our society.