Research Focus "Neural Systems"
Coordinator: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Dr. Udo Dannlowski
Deputy Coordinator: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Tanja Kuhlmann
The Neural Systems research focus represents a highly interconnected and content-focused structure that connects the fields of molecular and systems neuroscience, tightly interlinking them at the site, and collaborating to implement these research projects through translational collaborative projects. The molecularly oriented research group's primary research interests include the role of synapses, ion channels, and signaling molecules, as well as disease mechanisms in animal models and human biomaterials. The systems neuroscience groups primarily deal with the analysis of brain structures and functions, e.g., in large-scale (patient) cohorts. This includes in-depth, clinical phenotyping, with imaging techniques forming the essential methodological basis. The integration of the two fields across the inflammatory process represents the original, site-specific approach. The numerous clinically translational collaborative projects, as well as the excellent networking of the working groups within these projects enable future-oriented research at the highest scientific level, promote the declared strategic goal of human clinical translation at the site, and enhance the Münster location's national and international profile.
Of fundamental relevance to the future development of this research focus is the Body and Brain Institute Münster (BBIM), a research building currently applied for under Section 91b GG. It will bring together various departments in a coherent, thematically cohesive structure based on a common research program. This research program places the "body-immune-brain" interaction at the centre of research, with the goal of significantly shaping and advancing the future focus on Neural Systems.
Both areas worked paradigmatically in the two highly successful Transregional Collaborative Research Centers (CRC-TRR 58; 2008-2020; Spokesperson: Prof. Dr. H.C. Pape), CRC-TRR 128 (2012-2024; Spokesperson: Prof. Dr. H. Wiendl), and in other collaborative projects (DFG Research Unit 2107, Co-Spokesperson Prof. Dr. Dr. U. Dannlowski) located in Münster. CRC 58 investigates mechanisms underlying the development of fear and anxiety disorders from the molecular to system-physiological level in murine model systems and patients, while CRC 2107 further characterizes affective disorders. In TRR 128, neuroinflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis are also investigated from cellular mechanisms to proof-of-concept studies in humans, which demonstrates the high translational character of all collaborative research funding in the Neural Systems research focus.