Summary

Our laboratory is currently setting up routine operations in state-of-the art facilities at the West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen. Based on classic stem cell technologies, we extract and scrutinize patient tumor cells ex vivo and in orthotopic tumor models for swift and effective biomarker/ target discovery and for drug development towards application in early clinical trials. Our research activities focus on oncogenic mechanisms related to CNS disease; however, our translational approach enables validation of discoveries in any type of cancer.

Within the local DKTK network, we closely interact with the Division of Clinical Neurooncology at the Department of Neurology (Prof. Dr. Martin Glas) and with the Department of Neurosurgery (Prof. Dr. Ulrich Sure). Specific mutual interests relate to the discovery of innovative treatment concepts in the care of patients suffering from glioma, meningioma, and metastasized CNS disease. We conduct exploratory studies to further diagnostic and biomarker research as well as novel imaging solutions, and we develop clinical study designs optimizing photon/proton treatment strategies. Research and teaching activities in Translational Oncology are concerted with the other local DKTK professorships (Prof. Dr. Jens Siveke and Prof. Dr. Dr. Jürgen Becker) enabling a vivid and innovative environment for cross-disease discoveries.