DFG Funds CRC 1454 on Metaflammation: Linking Lifestyle to Chronic Inflammation
The German Research Foundation (DFG) has approved the second funding period for the Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) 1454. This centre studies the links between western lifestyles and chronic inflammatory diseases. These diseases include cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic syndrome.
The Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics at TU Braunschweig is involved in two projects within the CRC. The department focuses on immune cell metabolism and uses mass spectrometry to analyze metabolic processes. This research aims to improve our understanding of health issues related to modern living.
How does Dr. Lisa Müller’s team utilize mass spectrometry in studying the effects of lifestyle factors on immune cell metabolism?
Interview with Dr. Lisa Müller, Lead Researcher at the Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, TU Braunschweig
News Directory 3: Dr. Müller, the German Research Foundation has recently approved the second funding period for CRC 1454. Can you share the meaning of this milestone for your research?
Dr. Müller: Absolutely. The continuation of funding for CRC 1454 is crucial as it allows us to deepen our research into the complex relationships between Western lifestyles and chronic inflammatory diseases. This funding not only supports our ongoing projects but also signifies recognition of the importance of this area of research, especially given the increasing prevalence of these diseases in society.
News Directory 3: How does the research conducted at your department specifically contribute to the understanding of chronic inflammatory diseases?
Dr. Müller: Our department focuses on immune cell metabolism, which is a key factor in the development of chronic inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic syndrome. By utilizing advanced mass spectrometry techniques, we can analyze metabolic processes in immune cells, providing insights into how lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress, affect cellular function and contribute to inflammation.
News Directory 3: Can you explain the role of mass spectrometry in your research?
Dr. Müller: Mass spectrometry is a powerful analytical tool that allows us to identify and quantify metabolites within biological samples. In our projects,we apply this technique to immune cells to observe the metabolic changes that occur in response to various lifestyle-related stressors. This helps us build a clearer picture of the metabolic pathways involved in inflammation and disease progression.
News Directory 3: What are some of the specific lifestyle factors your team is examining?
Dr. Müller: We are investigating several factors, including dietary habits, physical inactivity, and chronic stress.Each of these elements is believed to influence immune cell metabolism and, consequently, the development of chronic inflammatory diseases.By assessing these factors, we hope to identify potential intervention points and strategies for prevention or treatment.
News Directory 3: With this research, what do you hope to achieve in the long term?
Dr. Müller: Our long-term goal is to translate our findings into practical applications that can inform public health guidelines and improve individual health outcomes. By understanding the links between lifestyle choices, immune cell metabolism, and chronic diseases, we aspire to contribute to developing targeted interventions that promote healthier living and reduce disease risk.
News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Müller, for sharing your insights and the important work being done at TU Braunschweig.
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me. I’m excited about the future of our research and the potential it holds for enhancing public health.