Prof. Dr. E. Richling
Our working group deals with the identification and quantification of food ingredients and contaminants as well as their metabolites as biomarkers. Further focal points are the availability and biological effects of food ingredients in vitro and in humans.
Polyphenols, triterpenes and vitamins are found in numerous types of fruit and vegetables and are intensively studied by us.
- Bioavailability, metabolism and biological effects of food & food ingredients in vitro and in humans
- Biomonitoring of food contaminants
Prof. Dr. J. Fahrer
The AG Fahrer deals with the development mechanisms of colorectal cancer, the third most common tumor disease in Germany. In particular, the importance of the DNA damage response as a cellular protective mechanism against carcinogenic substances from food is being investigated.
Another research focus is on the use of natural compounds and chemical derivatives to improve the treatment of colorectal cancer.
For this purpose, in vitro and in vivo models are used, which are examined using biochemical-analytical, cell and molecular biological methods as well as a mini-endoscopy procedure.
Junior Professor Dr. B. Witt
The Witt working group is concerned with the effects of an incorrect distribution of essential trace elements and metals or metal compounds in our body. The focus is particularly on the trace element copper. A central research question deals with the elucidation of pathological consequencesof elemental maldistribution in connection with neurodegenerative diseases and the role played by trace elements such as copper . The neurotoxic mechanisms of action are investigated at the cellular and molecular level using various in vitro models. Common cell culture and molecular biological methods as well as modern bioimaging studies are used to clarify the research questions.
Dr. T. Kostka (Emmy-Noether)
The DFG-funded junior research group (AG Kostka) focuses on the toxic effects of meat ingredients and their potential to promote colorectal cancer. The influence of digestive processes, cellular uptake into the intestinal cells and the damage caused there are analyzed in more detail. Another focus is the detailed characterization of cellular protective mechanisms that counteract acute damage on the one hand and appear to slow down the metastasis of intestinal tumors on the other.
We use in vitro digestion methods, recombinant proteins and different cell culture models. Using analytical, biochemical, cell and molecular biological methods, the research group contributes to a better understanding of the development of colorectal cancer through excessive meat consumption.