Functionalizable silica-based MPIO for cellular MRI
23 December 2012 - 14:34 Filed in: Publications
Cellular therapies require methods for non-invasive visualization of transplanted cells. Micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) generate strong contrast in
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and are therefore ideally suited as an intracellular contrast agent to image cells under clinical conditions. However,
MPIOs were previously not applicable for clinical use. Here, we present the development and evaluation of silica-based micron-sized iron oxide particles
(sMPIOs) with a functionalizable particle surface.
David Mücke successfully defended thesis
16 November 2012 - 20:32 Filed in: General
Today, David Mücke successfully defended his thesis magna cum laude with respect to his work on the in vitro evaluation of MRI contrast agents for detection of primary human hepatocytes („In vitro Evaluierung von Magnetresonanztomografie-Kontrastmitteln für die Markierung primärer humaner Hepatozyten“).
Congratulations !
Congratulations !
XXXX ESAO Congress in Glasgow
11 November 2012 - 23:47 Filed in: Meetings
Latest information is available via www.esao2013.org !
Presentations at ESAO 2012 in Rostock, Germany
29 September 2012 - 12:15 Filed in: Meetings
“Liver: Current regenerative strategies and future solutions for the liver" (N. Raschzok, oral presentation)
"Neohybrid liver graft - a novel concept of in vivo tissue-engineering" (S. Rohn, oral presentation)
"Micro RNAs in liver regeneration: the mysterious MIR-352" (L. Lisboa, oral presentation)
"Micron-sized iron oxide particles for detection and loco-regional stimulation of transplanted liver cells" (A. Leder, oral presentation)
"Prospective validation of cross organ serum protein biomarkers – Initial results with CXCL9 and CD44 for diagnosis of acute liver rejection" (K.A. Prabowo, poster presentation)
MRI and ectopic liver cell transplantation – new paper
21 September 2012 - 14:24 Filed in: Publications
Liver cell transplantation is a promising approach for the treatment of metabolic liver disorders. However, a method for noninvasive monitoring during liver cell transplantation is not available clinically. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of fast dynamic MRI monitoring during liver cell infusion to the spleen, which is considered an ectopic implantation site for liver cell transplantation. Porcine liver cells were labeled with micron-sized iron oxide particles and infused to the spleens of pigs (n = 5) via the lineal artery. MRI was performed using a 3-T MR scanner. Initially, T1- and T2-weighted pulse sequences were tested. Thereafter, fast dynamic MRI was performed during cell infusion. MR findings were verified by immunohistological examinations.
Images from static MRI (TR/TE, 2500/105.2) showed significantly lower signal intensity and signal-to-noise ratio after cell infusion compared with pretransplant images. T2-weighted fast dynamic MRI enabled visualization of signal decrease of the spleen during cell infusion. When cells were infused systemically, no signal changes in the spleen were observed. This study shows that fast dynamic MRI can enable noninvasive monitoring during liver cell transplantation to the spleen. This approach could be useful for preclinical studies and for quality control of clinical liver cell transplantation.
R.B.V. Schmuck received Charité Robert-Koch-Prize 2012
20 September 2012 - 20:55 Filed in: Award
Today, Rosa Schmuck received the 2012 Charité Robert-Koch-Prize for her doctoral thesis entitled „Genotypic and phenotypic characterization of side population of gastric cancer cell lines“ (group of Prof. C. Röcken).
The Side Population (SP) of tumor cell lines shares characteristics with tumor stem cells. In this study we phenotypically and genotypically characterized the SP of gastric cancer cell lines. SPs were obtained from MKN45- and AGS-gastric cancer cells using Hoechst 33342 staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). SP cells were subsequently studied morphologically (cytology, immunocytochemistry), on the transcriptional level (gene array) and in cell culture (recultivation assays). Genes differentially expressed in the SP cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in tissue from gastric cancer patients. SP cells were smaller and rounder then Non-SP cells. SP cells self-renewed in re-cultivation experiments and differentiated into SP- and Non-SP cells. Re-cultivated SP- and Non-SP cells showed distinct phenotypes in culture regarding cell shape and colony-formation. SP cells had increased levels of the stem cell markers CD133 and Musashi1. Transcriptional analyses demonstrated that SP cells express genes that encode for stem cell properties like FZD7, HEY1, SMO and ADAM17. Finally she found ADAM17 and FZD7 to be differentially expressed in human gastric cancer, with FZD7- positive intestinal type cancers showing a significant shorter patient survival. In conclusion human gastric cancer cell lines enclose a phenotypically and genotypically distinct cell population with tumor stem cell features. Phenotypical characteristics of this distinct cell population are also present in gastric cancer tissue and seem to correlate with patient survival.
The Side Population (SP) of tumor cell lines shares characteristics with tumor stem cells. In this study we phenotypically and genotypically characterized the SP of gastric cancer cell lines. SPs were obtained from MKN45- and AGS-gastric cancer cells using Hoechst 33342 staining and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). SP cells were subsequently studied morphologically (cytology, immunocytochemistry), on the transcriptional level (gene array) and in cell culture (recultivation assays). Genes differentially expressed in the SP cells were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in tissue from gastric cancer patients. SP cells were smaller and rounder then Non-SP cells. SP cells self-renewed in re-cultivation experiments and differentiated into SP- and Non-SP cells. Re-cultivated SP- and Non-SP cells showed distinct phenotypes in culture regarding cell shape and colony-formation. SP cells had increased levels of the stem cell markers CD133 and Musashi1. Transcriptional analyses demonstrated that SP cells express genes that encode for stem cell properties like FZD7, HEY1, SMO and ADAM17. Finally she found ADAM17 and FZD7 to be differentially expressed in human gastric cancer, with FZD7- positive intestinal type cancers showing a significant shorter patient survival. In conclusion human gastric cancer cell lines enclose a phenotypically and genotypically distinct cell population with tumor stem cell features. Phenotypical characteristics of this distinct cell population are also present in gastric cancer tissue and seem to correlate with patient survival.
TTS 2012 – Thank you!
01 August 2012 - 00:30 Filed in: Meetings
The LOC would like to thank all participants for a tremendous 24th International Congress of The Transplantation Society in Berlin!
2268 abstracts were submitted and more than 4800 delegates from 94 countries attended the congress!
The Postgraduate Weekend offered 14 workshops with 45 speakers. Beside 29 Sunrise Symposia with 103 Speakers, 34 State of the Art Sessions with 138 speakers and five Plenary Sessions (16 speakers) we had 53 sessions with 465 oral presentations and 37 sessions with 287 mini oral presentations !
Furthermore, we would like to thank Astrid Enke, Lena Dochat and Stefanie Rensch (Interplan) and the technical experts at m-Events for their excellent work !
As Science and Medicine is nothing without vivid life we would like to thank Rotfront, Berlin Comedian Harmonists and the Capital Dance Orchestra for their memorable performances!
All the great photos by Jan Pauls.
The organ sculptures were made by Jan Pareike.
2268 abstracts were submitted and more than 4800 delegates from 94 countries attended the congress!
The Postgraduate Weekend offered 14 workshops with 45 speakers. Beside 29 Sunrise Symposia with 103 Speakers, 34 State of the Art Sessions with 138 speakers and five Plenary Sessions (16 speakers) we had 53 sessions with 465 oral presentations and 37 sessions with 287 mini oral presentations !
Furthermore, we would like to thank Astrid Enke, Lena Dochat and Stefanie Rensch (Interplan) and the technical experts at m-Events for their excellent work !
As Science and Medicine is nothing without vivid life we would like to thank Rotfront, Berlin Comedian Harmonists and the Capital Dance Orchestra for their memorable performances!
All the great photos by Jan Pauls.
The organ sculptures were made by Jan Pareike.
TTS 2012 | Over 500 presentations online !
29 July 2012 - 19:37 Filed in: Meetings
The program will now include more than 500 presentations by international experts in all aspects of basic biology and clinical transplantation give during the 24th International Congress of the Transplantation Society
You may access the videos here !
ESAO 2012 – Final Program Online !
28 July 2012 - 00:19 Filed in: Meetings
Prof. Dr. Gustav Steinhoff, congress president of the XXXIX. ESAO Congress, invites you to Rostock on September 26th – 29th, 2012. The venue of the ESAO 2012 congress is the Academy of Music and Theatre, which resides in an old monastery in the city centre.
The motto of the ESAO Congress 2012 will be “from replacement to regeneration – from science to clinic”. The current state of organ assist and organ support allows for a rapidly advancing clinical practice for several hundred thousand patients worldwide.
The scientific program committee did select 59 keynote lectures of renowned international experts, 131 selected oral presentations and 101 poster presentations from worldwide scientific contributors. Nine poster presentations were selected for short oral presentation. We provide a clear program structure by highlighting one special organ system each congress day: heart/cardiovascular (Chair: G. Steinhoff) , liver (Chair: S. Mitzner) and kidney (Chair: W. Ramlow). The program comprises 45 oral and 2 poster sessions with cardiovascular, dialysis, biomaterials and apheresis topics (www.esao2012.org). Above all the congress program integrates aspects of both basic science and clinical development with a clear focus on translation and clinical practice. We intend to host you on an excellent and exciting congress by inviting outstanding experts and by giving young and promising clinicians and scientists the opportunity to present their work. Especially for young scientists there will be one day for yESAO activities (Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012). Industry symposia, a poster exhibition and an industrial exhibition will complete the congress program.
We are looking forward to seeing you in Rostock 2012.
The motto of the ESAO Congress 2012 will be “from replacement to regeneration – from science to clinic”. The current state of organ assist and organ support allows for a rapidly advancing clinical practice for several hundred thousand patients worldwide.
The scientific program committee did select 59 keynote lectures of renowned international experts, 131 selected oral presentations and 101 poster presentations from worldwide scientific contributors. Nine poster presentations were selected for short oral presentation. We provide a clear program structure by highlighting one special organ system each congress day: heart/cardiovascular (Chair: G. Steinhoff) , liver (Chair: S. Mitzner) and kidney (Chair: W. Ramlow). The program comprises 45 oral and 2 poster sessions with cardiovascular, dialysis, biomaterials and apheresis topics (www.esao2012.org). Above all the congress program integrates aspects of both basic science and clinical development with a clear focus on translation and clinical practice. We intend to host you on an excellent and exciting congress by inviting outstanding experts and by giving young and promising clinicians and scientists the opportunity to present their work. Especially for young scientists there will be one day for yESAO activities (Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012). Industry symposia, a poster exhibition and an industrial exhibition will complete the congress program.
We are looking forward to seeing you in Rostock 2012.
Growing Livers – Jan Pareike's way of doing it...
27 July 2012 - 00:20 Filed in: General
TTS 2012 | Presentations
21 July 2012 - 19:11 Filed in: Meetings
Martina Mogl presented "Neohybrid Liver Graft - a Novel Concept of in Vivo Tissue-Engineering"
Rosa Schmuck presented our first results concerning "miRNA Pattern Within the Bile as a Diagnostic Tool after Liver Transplantation"
Nathanael Raschzok gave an oral presentation entitled "Silica-Based Micron-Sized Iron Oxide Particles for Detection and Loco-Regional Stimulation of Transplanted Liver Cells"
Haluk Morgül gave a talk on "MicroRNA as Biomarker for Diagnosis and Prediction of Recurrence of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation - Preliminary Results from a Multicenter Database"
Furthermore, the group presented a poster concerning "Prospective Validation of Serum Protein Biomarkers for Detection of Acute Liver Rejection – Initial Results with CXCL9 and CD44"
Rosa Schmuck presented our first results concerning "miRNA Pattern Within the Bile as a Diagnostic Tool after Liver Transplantation"
Nathanael Raschzok gave an oral presentation entitled "Silica-Based Micron-Sized Iron Oxide Particles for Detection and Loco-Regional Stimulation of Transplanted Liver Cells"
Haluk Morgül gave a talk on "MicroRNA as Biomarker for Diagnosis and Prediction of Recurrence of Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Liver Transplantation - Preliminary Results from a Multicenter Database"
Furthermore, the group presented a poster concerning "Prospective Validation of Serum Protein Biomarkers for Detection of Acute Liver Rejection – Initial Results with CXCL9 and CD44"
TTS & DTG Int. Basic Science Mentee/Mentor Award
17 July 2012 - 20:05 Filed in: Award
Based on his scientific abstract on “Silica-Based Micron-Sized Iron Oxide Particles for Detection and Loco-Regional Stimulation of Transplanted Liver Cells”, Nathanael Raschzok (and Igor M. Sauer) received the TTS-DTG International Basic Science Mentee/Mentor Award for the 24th International Congress of The Transplantation Society, in Berlin, Germany. The Basic Science Mentee/Mentor award recognizes the efforts of basic scientists, who have advanced our understanding of transplant science/immunobiology and/or treatment of transplant recipients, as well as the importance of young investigators in furthering the basic science of transplantation.
Congratulations !
Congratulations !
TTS 2012 | Science Circus
16 July 2012 - 19:26 Filed in: Meetings
The Science Circuses are located at each end of the Exhibition Area. You will find the Mini-Theatres for the Mini-Oral Sessions here as well as the Poster Lounges and the Web Stations. Science Circus I includes Mini-Theatres 1 – 5; Science Circus II includes Mini-Theatres 6 – 10. In each Science Circus you will find Web Stations where you can access the web as well as the ePosters.
Via wireless headphones and dedicated channels for each mini-theater this is – to our knowledge – the first successful concept for mini-oral presentations!
Thanks to m-events and Interplan for the tremendous support!
TTS 2012 | Postgraduate Weekend
07 July 2012 - 18:46 Filed in: Meetings
TTS 2012 | Congress App available !
19 June 2012 - 09:32 Filed in: Meetings
Click here to download the TTS App for your iPhone or iPad
Click here to download the TTS App for your Android Phone
The free TTS Congress App gives users the opportunity to:
• Browse, search and view the Scientific Programme by Speakers, Session, Topics
and Keywords
• Access the Floor Plan to easily find Exhibitors and other meeting locations onsite
• Create your personal schedule
TTS 2012 | On-Site Program available !
17 May 2012 - 18:22 Filed in: Meetings
Dr. Nora Kammer & Dr. Kirsten Steinz
27 April 2012 - 20:09 Filed in: General
Nora defended her thesis "summa cum laude". She presented her results on labelling of primary human hepatocytes with micron-sized iron oxide particles in suspension culture suitable for large-scale preparation. In German her thesis is entitled „Markierung primärer humaner Hepatozyten mit mikroskaligen Eisenoxidpartikeln in temporärer Suspensionskultur“.
Kirsten defended her thesis „magna cum laude“. Her work is entitled „Evaluation der Applikationsrouten für die Leberzelltransplantation im Großtiermodell“
Congratulations!
XXXIX. ESAO Congress in Rostock, Germany
02 April 2012 - 06:07 Filed in: Meetings
On behalf of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO), Prof. Dr. med. Gustav Steinhoff invites you to the XXXIX. ESAO Congress to be held in Rostock (Germany), September 26th – 29th, 2012. Rostock is a prospering and easy-to-reach hanseatic city directly located at the Baltic Sea coast. The venue of the ESAO 2012 congress is the Academy of Music and Theatre, which resides in an old monastery in the city centre. Rostock is home to one of the oldest universities in the world: founded in 1419. The motto of the ESAO Congress 2012 will be “from replacement to regeneration – from science to clinic”. The meeting will provide a clear program structure by highlighting one special organ system each congress day: heart/cardiovascular, liver and kidney. Above all the congress program integrates aspects of both basic science and clinical development with a clear focus on translation and clinical practice. We intend to prepare an excellent and exciting congress by inviting outstanding experts and by giving young and promising clinicians and scientists the opportunity to present their work. Especially for young scientists there will be one day for yESAO activities. Industry symposia, a poster exhibition and an industrial exhibition will complete the congress program. More information via www.esao2012.org !
SlideObserver in Journal of Biotechnology
12 March 2012 - 11:32 Filed in: Publications
Cell morphology, proliferation and motility, as well as mono- and heterotypic cell-to-cell interactions, are of increasing interest for in vitro experiments. However, tightly controlling culture conditions while simultaneously monitoring the same set of cells is complicated. Moreover, video-microscopy of distinct cells or areas of cells over a prolonged period of time represents a technical challenge. The SlideObserver was designed for cinemicrography of cells in co-and monoculture. The core elements of the system are the SlideReactors, miniaturised hollow fibre-based bioreactors operated in closed perfusion loops. Within the SlideReactors, cells can be cultured under standard and experimental conditions as well as in direct- and indirect co-culture. The independent perfusion loops enable controlled variation of parameters such as medium, pH, and oxygenation. A combined automated microscope stage and camera set-up allows for micrograph acquisition of multiple user-defined regions of interest within the bioreactor units. For proof of concept, primary cells (HUVEC, human hepatocytes) and cell lines (HuH7, THP-1) were cultured under stable and varying culture conditions, as well as in mono- and co-culture. The operational system enabled non-stop imaging and automated control of process parameters as well as elective manipulation of either reactor. As opposed to static culture systems or comparable devices for cinemicrographic analysis, the SildeObserver allows simultaneous morphological monitoring of an entire culture of cells in control and experimental bioreactors.
TTS 2012 - Abstract Meeting in Berlin
01 March 2012 - 11:24 Filed in: Meetings
TTS 2012: Abstract submission now open !
01 October 2011 - 19:00 Filed in: Meetings
The International Program Committee of the 24th International Congress of The
Transplantation Society is pleased to invite the submission of scientific abstracts.
Please use this link to submit your abstract!
Transplantation Society is pleased to invite the submission of scientific abstracts.
Please use this link to submit your abstract!
CARS microscopy of MPIO
10 September 2011 - 09:43 Filed in: Publications | Projects
The fruitful cooperation with the FOM Institute AMOLF in Masterdam resulted in the paper "CARS microscopy for the visualization of micrometer-sized iron oxide MRI contrast agents in living cells" (Rago G, Langer CM, Brackman C, Day JP, Domke KF, Raschzok N, Schmidt C, Sauer IM, Enejder A, Mogl MT, Bonn M.) published in Biomed Opt Express. 2011 Sep 1;2(9):2470-83.
TTS 2012: Follow us via Twitter !
03 September 2011 - 10:56 Filed in: Meetings
Please join the mailing list and follow us via Twitter @TTS2012 for latest information concerning the 24th International Congress of The Transplantation Society to be held in Berlin, Germany from July 15th - 19th 2012 !
Fast dynamic MRI for during liver cell Tx
01 September 2011 - 09:50 Filed in: Publications
Nathanael Raschzok’s paper concerning „Feasibility of fast dynamic MRI for non-invasive monitoring during ectopic liver cell transplantation to the spleen in a porcine model“ was accepted for publication in American Journal of Roentgenology . Authors are N. Raschzok, J. Pinkernelle, N. Billecke, K. Nehls, M. Powerski, I.M. Sauer and U. Teichgraber.
Improved cold storage of human hepatocytes
31 August 2011 - 09:37 Filed in: Publications | Projects
Increasing amounts of human hepatocytes are needed for clinical applications and different fields of research, such as cell transplantation, bioartificial liver support and pharmacological testing. This demand calls for adequate storage options for isolated human liver cells. As cryopreservation results in severe cryoinjury, short term storage is currently performed at 2-8º C in preservation solutions developed for the storage of solid organs. However, besides slowing down cell metabolism, cold also induces cell injury, which is, in many cell types, iron-dependent and not counteracted by current storage solutions. In this study, we aimed to characterize storage injury to human hepatocytes and develop a customized solution for cold storage of these cells. Human hepatocytes were isolated from material obtained from partial liver resections, seeded in monolayer cultures and, after a pre-culture period, stored in the cold in classical and new solutions followed by rewarming in cell culture medium.Human hepatocytes displayed cold-induced injury, resulting in > 80% cell death (LDH release) after one week of cold storage in University of Wisconsin solution or cell culture medium and 3 h of rewarming. Cold-induced injury could be significantly reduced by the addition of the iron chelators deferoxamine and LK 614. Experiments with modified solutions based on the new organ preservation solution Custodiol-N showed that ion-rich variants were better than ion-poor variants, chloride-rich solutions better than chloride-poor solutions, potassium as main cation superior to sodium and pH 7.0 superior to pH 7.4. LDH release after two weeks of cold storage in the thus optimized solution was below 20%, greatly improving cold storage of human hepatocytes. The results were confirmed by the assessment of hepatocellular mitochondrial membrane potential and functional parameters (resazurin reduction, glucacon-stimulated glucose liberation) and thus suggest the use of a customized hepatocyte storage solution for the cold storage of these cells.
Profiles of microRNA after rat partial hepatectomy
10 March 2011 - 16:21 Filed in: Publications
Labelling of hepatocytes in suspension culture
01 March 2011 - 19:21 Filed in: Publications
Protocols for labelling of hepatocytes with micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIO) in adhesion culture enable cell detection using clinical Magnetic Resonance equipment. For clinical applications, large numbers of cells must be labelled in a simple and rapid manner, which requires new labelling protocols. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of preparing MPIO-labelled primary human hepatocytes in a temporary suspension culture. Human hepatocytes were isolated from 16 donors and labelled with MPIO in suspension, using the Rotary Cell Culture System. Particle incorporation was investigated by light and electron microscopy. Cells were compared to adhesion culture-labelled and subsequently enzymatically resuspended cells. During a five-day culture period, hepatocyte-specific parameters of cell damage (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase) and metabolic activity (urea and albumin) were analysed. Suspension cultures showed a higher outcome in cell recovery compared to the conventional labelling method. When incubated with 180 particles/cell for four hours, the mean particle uptake was 28.8 particles/cell at a labelling efficiency of 95.1%. Labelling in suspension had no adverse effects on cell integrity or metabolic activity. In conclusion, labelling in suspension is a practicable method for fast and efficient preparation of large numbers of labelled cells that are suitable for clinical applications.
Monitoring cell transplantation in swine model via MRI
07 January 2011 - 19:22 Filed in: Publications
Liver cell transplantation (LCT) is a promising treatment approach for certain liver diseases, but clinical implementation requires methods for non-invasive follow-up. Labeling with superparamagnetic iron oxide particles can enable the detection of cells with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We investigated the feasibility of monitoring transplanted liver cells by MRI in a preclinical swine model and used this approach to evaluate different routes for cell application. Liver cells were isolated from landrace piglets and labeled with micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIO) in adhesion. Labeled cells (n = 10), native cells (n = 3) or pure particles (n = 4) were transplanted to minipigs via intraportal infusion into the liver, direct injection into the splenic parenchyma, or intra-arterial infusion to the spleen. Recipients were investigated by repeated 3.0 Tesla MRI and computed tomography angiography up to 8 weeks after transplantation. Labeling with MPIO, which are known to have a strong effect on the magnetic field, enabled non-invasive detection of cell aggregates by MRI. Following intraportal application, which is commonly applied for clinical LCT, MRI was able to visualize the microembolization of transplanted cells in the liver that were not detected by conventional imaging modalities. Cells directly injected into the spleen were retained, whereas cell infusions intraarterially into the spleen led to translocation and engraftment of transplanted cells in the liver, with significantly fewer microembolisms compared to intraportal application. These findings demonstrate that MRI can be a valuable tool for non-invasive elucidation of cellular processes of LCT and - if clinically applicable MPIO are available - for monitoring of LCT under clinical conditions. Moreover, the results clarify mechanisms relevant for clinical practice of LCT, suggesting that the intra-arterial route to the spleen deserves further evaluation.
TTS 2012: www.transplantation2012.org is online!
02 January 2011 - 01:11 Filed in: Meetings
Following the exceptionally successful meetings in Boston, Sydney and Vancouver, we would like to welcome you to a city which twenty years after reunification has evolved into one of the most important capitals of Europe. Once the capital of Prussia and leading cultural centre of the 1920s, today the new capital of Germany is characterized by its dazzling modernity and breathtaking architecture. Berlin is young, dynamic and bursting with joie de vivre. Few cities has been shaped to such an extent by history and undergone as much major transformation as Berlin. “Berlin is always in the process of becoming”, remarked historian Karl Scheffler. Even in the 21st century transplantation still is in a process of becoming, too. Therefore, the 24th International Congress of The Transplantation Society will promote the dialogue of experts from around the world. An attractive scientific program will be developed together with the Deutsche Transplantationsgesellschaft (DTG).
The 24th Congress is designed for physicians, surgeons, scientists and organ procurement personnel, who are interested in clinical and research aspects of solid organ, cell and tissue transplantation. The program is developed to encourage the exchange of new scientific and clinical information, and and support an interchange of opinions regarding care and management issues, as well as socioeconomic, ethical and regulatory issues relevant to transplantation.
In addition to the classical types of scientific sessions including plenary sessions, symposia, workshops and poster presentations, we will also offer new types of scientific sessions within the Forum Futurum focusing on Tailored Pharmacotherapy, Imaging and Regenerative Medicine. All of this is designed to develop a highly interactive forum to discuss cutting-edge science in our field.
We therefore cordially invite you and your colleagues together with your friends and family to come to Berlin. Your active participation in the scientific program will be the fundament for a successful event in 2012.
SlideReactor starlet at exhibition
03 October 2010 - 19:11 Filed in: Exhibitions
A multicompartment SlideReactor is shown at the exhibition “WeltWissen – World Knowledge”.
This year, Berlin celebrates 200 years of the Humboldt University, 300 years of the Charité, 300 years since the first statute and first publication by the Academy of the Sciences and, one year later, 100 years of the Max Planck and Kaiser Wilhelm Society and the 350th birthday of the Berlin State Library. The exhibition “WeltWissen – World Knowledge” is the high point of the Berlin Year of Science. The Humboldt University, the Charité, the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of the Sciences and Humanities and the Max Planck Society have organised the exhibition as a unique joint project. The Technical University, the Berlin State Museums and the Deutsches Museum, Munich are involved as partners. From 24 September 2010 to 9 January 2011, Martin-Gropius-Bau will be host ing its “WeltWissen“ (World Knowledge) exhibition which takes a look at 300 years of the science in Berlin from an all-embracing perspective that crosses institutions, disciplines and epochs. The exhibition is the high point of the Berlin Year of Science. On an exhibition space of more than 3,200 square metres, visitors are presented with over 1,500 original exhibits, installations and media stations. The Humboldt University, the Charité, the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of the Sciences and Humanities and the Max Planck Society have organised the exhibition as a unique joint project.
The exhibition correlates sciences in Berlin to the world: only the dynamic interplay of local imprinting and worldwide networking has allowed Berlin since 300 years to generate knowledge and share it with the world. Concrete and highly vivid stories and biographies of objects, researchers and institutions offer exciting insights into the scientific environment. “WeltWissen – World Knowledge” shows how scientists in Berlin work, how they network internationally, how they break down the boundaries of their departments and how they transformed Berlin into a scientific metropolis.
WeltWissen. 300 Years of Science in Berlin 24 September 2010 – 9 January 2011 Martin-Gropius-Bau, Niederkirchnerstrasse 7, 10963 Berlin
Opening times: Wed - Mo: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm, closed on Tuesdays
Admission: 6 €, reduced 4€ . Free admission for children and adolescents up to an including 16 years of age, two escorts each per kindergarten group or school class as well as recipients of unemployment benefit level II
Public transport: Underground line 2 (Potsdamer Platz), city train lines 1, 2, 25 (Potsdamer Platz or Anhalter Bahnhof), Buses: M29 (Anhalter Bahnhof) / M41 (Abgeordnetenhaus) Please find more information at: www.weltwissen-berlin.de, www.gropiusbau.de
Copyright of upper, large picture: Roman März
This year, Berlin celebrates 200 years of the Humboldt University, 300 years of the Charité, 300 years since the first statute and first publication by the Academy of the Sciences and, one year later, 100 years of the Max Planck and Kaiser Wilhelm Society and the 350th birthday of the Berlin State Library. The exhibition “WeltWissen – World Knowledge” is the high point of the Berlin Year of Science. The Humboldt University, the Charité, the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of the Sciences and Humanities and the Max Planck Society have organised the exhibition as a unique joint project. The Technical University, the Berlin State Museums and the Deutsches Museum, Munich are involved as partners. From 24 September 2010 to 9 January 2011, Martin-Gropius-Bau will be host ing its “WeltWissen“ (World Knowledge) exhibition which takes a look at 300 years of the science in Berlin from an all-embracing perspective that crosses institutions, disciplines and epochs. The exhibition is the high point of the Berlin Year of Science. On an exhibition space of more than 3,200 square metres, visitors are presented with over 1,500 original exhibits, installations and media stations. The Humboldt University, the Charité, the Berlin-Brandenburg Academy of the Sciences and Humanities and the Max Planck Society have organised the exhibition as a unique joint project.
The exhibition correlates sciences in Berlin to the world: only the dynamic interplay of local imprinting and worldwide networking has allowed Berlin since 300 years to generate knowledge and share it with the world. Concrete and highly vivid stories and biographies of objects, researchers and institutions offer exciting insights into the scientific environment. “WeltWissen – World Knowledge” shows how scientists in Berlin work, how they network internationally, how they break down the boundaries of their departments and how they transformed Berlin into a scientific metropolis.
WeltWissen. 300 Years of Science in Berlin 24 September 2010 – 9 January 2011 Martin-Gropius-Bau, Niederkirchnerstrasse 7, 10963 Berlin
Opening times: Wed - Mo: 10.00 am – 8.00 pm, closed on Tuesdays
Admission: 6 €, reduced 4€ . Free admission for children and adolescents up to an including 16 years of age, two escorts each per kindergarten group or school class as well as recipients of unemployment benefit level II
Public transport: Underground line 2 (Potsdamer Platz), city train lines 1, 2, 25 (Potsdamer Platz or Anhalter Bahnhof), Buses: M29 (Anhalter Bahnhof) / M41 (Abgeordnetenhaus) Please find more information at: www.weltwissen-berlin.de, www.gropiusbau.de
Copyright of upper, large picture: Roman März
SPAD in children with acute liver failure
01 October 2010 - 22:23 Filed in: Publications
The paper reports on a retrospective data review of uncontrolled clinical data of an university-based pediatric intensive care unit collaborating with a local center for liver transplantation. Nine children, aged 2 to 15 yrs, who were treated with single-pass albumin dialysis for acute liver failure of various origins under a compassionate-use protocol between 2000 and 2006. All patients met high-urgency liver transplantation criteria. Single-pass albumin dialysis was performed as rescue therapy for children with acute liver failure. The decrease in hepatic encephalopathy (grades 1-4) and the serum levels of bilirubin, bile acids, and ammonium were measured to assess the efficacy of detoxification. As a measure of liver synthesis function, thromboplastin time and fibrinogen were analyzed. The safety of the procedure was assessed by documenting adverse effects on mean arterial blood pressure, platelet count, and clinical course. Seven out of nine patients were bridged successfully to either native organ recovery (n = 1) or liver transplantation (n = 7), one of them twice. Six out of nine patients undergoing single-pass albumin dialysis (ten treatments) survived. In six patients, hepatic encephalopathy could be reduced at least by one degree. Ammonium, bilirubin, and bile acid levels decreased in all patients. One patient had an allergic reaction to albumin. In childhood acute liver failure, treatment with single-pass albumin dialysis was generally well tolerated and seems to be effective in detoxification and in improving blood pressure, thus stabilizing the critical condition of children before liver transplantation and facilitating bridging to liver transplantation. It may be beneficial in avoiding severe neurologic sequelae after acute liver failure and thereby improve survival. Single-pass albumin dialysis is an inexpensive albumin-based detoxification system that is easy to set up and requires little training. Whether and to what extent single-pass albumin dialysis can support children with acute liver failure until native liver recovery remain unclear.
Presentations at this year's XXXVII ESAO Congress
12 September 2010 - 22:24 Filed in: Meetings
Nathanael Raschzok presented data on "In vitro evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents for labeling of human liver cells" (N. Raschzok, D. A. Muecke, M. Adonopoulou, N. Billecke, A. Zielinski, W. Werner, U. Teichgraeber, I. M. Sauer). Wiebke Werner reported on "Temporal microRNA gene expression profiles of the regenerating rat liver after partial hepatectomy" (W. Werner, N. Raschzok, H. Sallmon, N. Billecke, C. Dame, P. Neuhaus, I. M. Sauer), a joint project of the Department of Neonatology, Charité, and our group.
XXIII International Congress of TTS
20 August 2010 - 22:40 Filed in: Meetings
Berlin Science Year
24 July 2010 - 22:43 Filed in: Exhibitions
Five major scientific institutions in Berlin are celebrating their jubilee in 2010. It is 350 years since the Berlin State Library (Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin) was founded. Three hundred years ago, in 1710, the Charité hospital was erected on the orders of Frederick I, and in the same year the Kurfürstlich Brandenburgische Sozietät der Wissenschaften (Princely Brandenburg Society of the Sciences), which later became the Berlin-Brandenburgische Akademie der Wissenschaften (Berlin Brandenburg Academy of the Sciences), received its first statute. 1810 saw the birth of the Humboldt University, and a century after that it was the turn of the Kaiser Wilhelm Society, the forerunner of the Max Planck Society.
The central exhibition ‘Weltwissen’ (‘Universal Knowledge’), in which all five institutions are taking part, will open at the Martin-Gropius-Bau on 24 September. This gives a panoramic retrospect of 300 years of science in Berlin, from Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz to the Brothers Humboldt and the Brothers Grimm and continuing on to Albert Einstein and Konrad Zuse. The exhibition “World Knowledge” forms the highlight of the Year of Science. Via illustrative stories of objects, researchers and institutions, the exhibition offers insight into the sciences. It illustrates how scientists have developed Berlin into a metropolis of science with a multitude of institutions and museums. The exhibition is a joint production of the Berlin Brandenburg Academy of Sciences, the Charité Berlin, the Humboldt University of Berlin and the Max-Planck- Society. Partners are: the State Library of Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation, Free University Berlin, Technical University Berlin, the Museum of Natural History Berlin, die State Museums of Berlin and the German Museum in Munich.
More information via Berlin - Hauptstadt für die Wissenschaft.
The 60th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting
03 July 2010 - 22:51 Filed in: Meetings
The 2010 Lindau Meeting took place from June 27 till July 2. The 3rd interdisciplinary meeting brought together more than 650 young researchers from around the globe with 59 Nobel Laureates from the fields of physiology or medicine, physics and chemistry.
The Lindau Nobel Laureate Meetings provide a globally recognised forum for the transfer of knowledge between generations of scientists. They inspire and motivate Nobel Laureates and international Best Talents. Lectures of Nobel Laureates reflect current scientific topics and present relevant fields of research of the future. In panel discussions, seminars and during the various events of the social program young researchers nominated by a worldwide network of Academic Partners interact with Nobel Laureates.
Taking into account the national selection procedures, in excess of 20,000 young researchers apply to attend each Meeting. After Ruth Schwartländer attended in 2008 this year Nathanael Raschzok was chosen and received an invitation to Lindau.
XXIV International Congress of TTS 2012 in Berlin
02 May 2010 - 22:52 Filed in: Meetings
The XXIV International Congress of The Transplantation Society 2012 will take place in Berlin, Germany from 15-20 July, 2012. Chaired by Prof. Dr. Peter Neuhaus the specific objectives of the XXIV International Congress of The Transplantation Society (TTS) will be to promote dialogue and the exchange of experts from around the world. An attractive scientific program will be developed together with the Deutsche Transplantationsgesellschaft (DTG). The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) consists of Prof. Dr. Bernhard Banas, PD Dr. Olaf Guckelberger, PD Dr. Marcus Bahra, PD Dr. Igor M. Sauer and Sylvia Albrecht.
More information, soon via www.transplantation2012.org !
More information, soon via www.transplantation2012.org !
Hypothermia-induced cell protection & microglial cells
02 April 2010 - 22:55 Filed in: Publications
Despite the widespread interest in the clinical applications of hypothermia, the cellular mechanisms of hypothermia-induced neuroprotection have not yet been clearly understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate the cellular effects of clinically relevant hypothermia and rewarming on the morphological and functional characteristics of microglia. Microglial cells were exposed to a dynamic cooling and rewarming protocol. For stimulation, microglial cells were treated with 1 μg/mL lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found that hypothermia led to morphological changes from ramified to ameboid cell shapes. At 2 h after hypothermia and rewarming, microglial cells were again ramified with extended branches. Moreover, we found enhanced cell activation after rewarming, accompanied by increased phagocytosis and adenosine triphosphate consumption. Interestingly, hypothermia and rewarming led to a time-dependent significant up-regulation of the anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10 and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist in stimulated microglial cells. This is in line with the reduced proliferation and time-dependent down-regulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 in comparison to normothermic control cells after LPS stimulation. Furthermore, degradation of the inhibitor of the nuclear transcription factor-kappaB (IkappaB-alpha) was diminished and delayed under conditions of cooling and rewarming in LPS-stimulated microglial cells. Thus, our results show that hypothermia and rewarming activate microglial cells, increase phagocytosis and shift the balance of cytokine release in stimulated microglial cells towards the anti-inflammatory cytokines. This could be a new cellular mechanism of hypothermia-induced neuroprotection mediated by activated microglial cells.
European Journal of Neuroscience, 2010; 31: 779-787
Charité's 300-year anniversary in 2010
01 April 2010 - 23:04 Filed in: General
In 2010, the Charité will celebrate its 300-year anniversary and will do everything to make this historical event a memorable one.
Short film covering the Charité - Universitätsmedizin celebrating its 300-year anniversary (47.91 MB)
XXXVII ESAO Congress in Skopje
31 March 2010 - 23:07 Filed in: Meetings
Skopje is the capital of Macedonia and the centre of the political, cultural and social life. It is a modern, urban city with a history dating more than 2000 years back. Skopje, once called Skupi, over the history was conquered and ruined several times, but always rebuilt again. It has suffered several natural catastrophes, the last being the earthquake in 1963. Some of the monuments from long ago have still remained: the remainings from the old city, the roman architecture, the fortress, the stone bridge, many churches and monasteries, frescoes and carvings from the middle ages, mosques and amams built by the ottomans in the old bazaar. Old Skopje with its very rich treasures is a very attractive tourist destination. It is very well connected by air and land with the rest of the world.
The Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, as the venue of the ESAO Congress in 2010, will provide the atmosphere for a perfect scientific event. You will enjoy “state of the art” presentations and lectures in some of the most attractive fields of medicine. The ESAO Congress 2010 will bring together distinguished clinicians and scientists of biotechnologies and bioengineering from all over the world. They will discuss results from scientific research in all areas of artificial organs. Our aim is to bring together and to foster exchange and collaboration among scientists, clinicians and industrial partners.
Aleksandar Sikole, the Congress President 2010, cordially welcomes you to Skopje to the ESAO 2010 Annual Congress.
More information via http://www.esao2010.org.mk/ .
Modified nanoparticles & multimodal imaging
11 March 2010 - 23:08 Filed in: Publications
Cell transplantation is a major field in regenerative medicine and a promising alternative to whole organ transplantation. However, the process of cell engraftment is not yet fully understood and the hitherto achieved clinical outcome is limited. The aim of our study was to modify an aminosilan-coated nanoparticle for cell labeling and make it applicable for multimodal imaging using MRI, PET and fluorescent imaging. HIV-1 tat, linked FITC, and Gallium-68 were covalently bound to the particle and injected into Wistar rats. Animal-PET imaging was performed followed by MRI at 3.0T. Hepatic accumulation of the particles was proven by radionuclide distribution after 10 minutes in PET as well as in MRI over a 24 hour-period. Histological workup of the liver also revealed content of iron oxide particles in the reticuloendothelial system. Adjacent in vitro studies incubating hepatogenic HuH7 cells with the particles showed a rapid intracellular accumulation, clearly detectable by fluorescence microscopy and MRI. In conclusion our modified nanoparticle is stable under in vitro and in vivo conditions and is applicable for multimodal molecular imaging. Cellular labeling with this particle is possible and might help to get new insights into understanding the process of cell transplantation.
XXIII International Congress of TTS
02 March 2010 - 23:08 Filed in: Meetings
The XXIII International Congress of The Transplantation Society, the leading international congress on transplantation biology and medicine, will be held in Vancouver, Canada from 15 - 19 August 2010. The translational program will draw together experts from around the world, and will encompass innovations in genomics and proteomics, molecular analyses of human diseases, innovations in biological and pharmacological immunosuppression, novel approaches to tolerance induction, technical advances in robotic surgery and imaging, advances in clinical practice and many other topics at the cutting edge of stem-cell, cellular and solid organ transplantation.
The XXIII Congress will be one of the largest and most exciting international gatherings of clinicians and scientists in the field of transplantation, drawing more than 4,000 delegates from all parts of the world. The international delegation will enjoy a stellar Scientific Program, commencing with a comprehensive and cutting-edge Postgraduate Education Program on Saturday 14th August and Sunday 15th August, and continuing with a panoply of outstanding plenary symposia, state of the art lectures, individual scientific presentations, and thematic symposia from Monday 16th August to Thursday 19th August inclusive.
The 2010 Congress will provide an outstanding opportunity for networking with colleagues and leading experts, and for sharing and discussing clinical advances, late-breaking discoveries and therapeutic advances in this field.
More information is available via www.transplantation2010.org. Furthermore, you may download the 2nd announcement here.
Important dates:
- Abstract Submission Opens: October 2009
- Online Registration Opens: November 2009
- Abstract Submission Deadline: 5 March 2010
- Author Notification of Acceptance: 7 May 2010
- Early Registration Deadline: 4 June 2010
- Late Breaking Abstract Deadline: 11 June 2010
- Hotel Reservation Deadline: 25 June 2010
- Regular Registration Deadline: 16 July 2010
Presentations at GASL 2010
02 February 2010 - 23:08 Filed in: Meetings
N. Raschzok and D. Mücke gave presentations on "Monitoring of liver cell transplantation by MRI" (oral presentation) and " In vitro comparison of iron oxide contrast agents for labelling of human hepatocytes" (poster presentation) at this year's 26th Meeting of the German Association for the Study of the Liver (GASL) in Bonn.
Haluk Morgül defended thesis "magna cum laude"
12 December 2009 - 23:09 Filed in: General
cBAL111
01 November 2009 - 23:10 Filed in: Publications
A clonal cell line that combines both stable hepatic function and proliferation capacity is desirable for in vitro applications that depend on hepatic function, such as pharmacological or toxicological assays and bioartificial liver systems. The article describes the generation and characterization of a clonal human cell line for in vitro hepatocyte applications.Cell clones derived from human fetal liver cells were immortalized by over-expression of telomerase reverse transcriptase. The resulting cell line, cBAL111, displayed hepatic functionality similar to the parental cells prior to immortalization, and did not grow in soft agar. Cell line cBAL111 expressed markers of immature hepatocytes, like glutathione S transferase and cytokeratin 19, as well as progenitor cell marker CD146 and was negative for lidocaine elimination. On the other hand, the cBAL111 cells produced urea, albumin and cytokeratin 18 and eliminated galactose. In contrast to hepatic cell lines NKNT-3 and HepG2, all hepatic functions were expressed in cBAL111, although there was considerable variation in their levels compared with primary mature hepatocytes. When transplanted in the spleen of immunodeficient mice, cBAL111 engrafted into the liver and partly differentiated into hepatocytes showing expression of human albumin and carbamoylphosphate synthetase without signs of cell fusion. This novel liver cell line has the potential to differentiate into mature hepatocytes to be used for in vitro hepatocyte applications.
World Conference on Regenerative Medicine 2009
01 October 2009 - 23:12 Filed in: Meetings
The World Conference on Regenerative Medicine (WRM) will be held from October 29th to October 31st, 2009 in Leipzig. The Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology is once again organizer and host of this scientific event and the Translational Center for Regenerative Medicine (TRM) Leipzig has become co-organiser of the event. Main topics will be stem cells, tissue engineering, technology development, immunology, signaling, and regulatory affairs.
The final program is now available - more information via www.wcrm-leipzig.com .
Nathanael Raschzok will present our latest results concerning "Tracking of Transplanted Liver Cells in a Preclinical Large Animal Model", Thursday, October 29th, 2009, 04:00-05:30 pm, session: Imaging of Regeneration II, Hall 4.
Sarah Illenberger: knit wool organs
30 September 2009 - 23:12 Filed in: General
In her Berlin studio, Sarah Illenberger created wonderful delicate knit wool organs. Unfortunately al liver is still pending:
Wool organs by visual artist Sarah Illenberger. Photographed by Andreas Achmann for Süddeutsche Zeitung Magazin.
Wool organs by visual artist Sarah Illenberger. Photographed by Andreas Achmann for Süddeutsche Zeitung Magazin.
ESAO 2009 - presentations
05 September 2009 - 23:13 Filed in: Meetings
At the XXXVI Annual Meeting of the European Society for Artificial Organs ESAO 2009 in Compiègne/France the following projects have been presented by members of our group:
- Tracking of transplanted liver cells via clinical 3.0 tesla MRI A. Zielinski, K. Steinz, N. Raschzok, N. Billecke, N. Kammer, M.H. Morgul, M. Adonopulou, S. Schmeisser, J. Pinkernelle, W. Ruedinger, U. Teichgraeber, I.M. Sauer
- Evaluation of application sites for liver cell transplantation in a large animal model K. Steinz, A. Zielinski, N. Raschzok, N. Billecke, N.N. Kammer, M.H. Morgul, M. Adonopulou, L. Morawietz, W. Rüdinger, I.M. Sauer
- Methylprednisolone and tacrolimus prevent hypothermia induced endothelial dysfunction - possible use in transplantation surgery K.R.L. Schmitt, A. Diestel, N. Billecke, F. Berger, I.M. Sauer
One Day on the Liver 2009
27 August 2009 - 23:14 Filed in: Meetings
The following keynote lectures will be given:
Clinical Results of Liver Cell Therapy in Children with Urea Cycle Defect by Dr. Dr. W. Rüdinger, Weinheim, Germany,
Xenotransplantation. Where are we in 2009 ? by Dr. A. Billiau, Leuven, Belgium,
Problems and Opportunities: Perspectives of Bioartificial Liver Support by Dr. R. Hoekstra, Amsterdam, Netherlands,
New perspectives of artificial liver support by Prof. Dr. D. Falkenhagen, Krems, Austria.
We expect to present you all lectures as video streams after the meeting.
BMBF Forschungsprämie
03 August 2009 - 23:16 Filed in: General
HAI 2009 - New aspects in liver support
21 July 2009 - 23:16 Filed in: Meetings
Chair: A. Jörres, Berlin and L. Renders, Kiel
Welcome and introduction - A. Krause (Bad Homburg)
Liver support systems: functioning and Biochemical efficiency - I.M. Sauer (Berlin)
Liver support systems: Clinical spectrum of indications and results - A. Jörres (Berlin)
Prometheus: Practical aspects and Anticoagulation - L. Renders (Kiel)
Prometheus: Hands-on
With the friendly support of Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
Two articles among top 25
10 July 2009 - 23:18 Filed in: Publications
The Editor-in-Chief Paul S. Malchesky of Artificial Organs informed us that the articles "`Blogs` and `Wikis Are Valuable Software Tools for Communication Within Research Groups" and "Isolation of primary human hepatocytes after partial hepatectomy: criteria for identification of the most promising liver specimen" were in the top 25 articles viewed online in 2008 at Blackwell Synergy.
ESAO 2009 - Program online
03 July 2009 - 23:20 Filed in: Meetings
The XXXVI Annual Meeting of the European Society for Artificial Organs ESAO 2009 will take place at the Université de Technologie de Compiègne in Compiègne/France, September 3-5, 2009.
The program of the ESAO 2009 meeting is now available here .
18. Jahrestagung der DTG in Berlin 2009
01 July 2009 - 23:20 Filed in: Meetings
die Transplantationsmedizin in Deutschland ist in der Zukunft mit einer Vielzahl von Problemen konfrontiert. Basierend auf hervorragenden Ergebnissen wurden in den letzten Jahren die Indikation zur Transplantation zunehmend großzügiger gestellt. Gleichzeitig führt der andauernde Mangel an Organspendern zu einer steigenden Akzeptanz sogenannter marginaler Organe. Neben diesem zentralen Problem sind sicherlich die steigende Zahl von Patienten zur Retransplantation, Langzeitnebenwirkungen der Immunsuppression sowie die Inzidenz von Malignomen dringende Diskussionpunkte.
Daher lade ich Sie recht herzlich zur 18. Jahrestagung der Deutschen Transplantationsgesellschaft unter dem Motto:’Transplantationsmedizin – Neue Herausforderungen bei gesicherter Routine“ nach Berlin ein.
Neben dem wissenschaftlichen Diskurs möchten wir Sie zu einer Diskussion der aktuellen Probleme und Entwicklungen in der Transplantationsmedizin einladen.
Traditionellerweise wird im Rahmen der Tagung das 13. AKTX-Pflegesymposium am Donnerstag und Freitag stattfinden.
Ich freue mich Sie in Berlin begrüßen zu dürfen, einer Stadt die aufgrund ihrer kulturellen, geschichtlichen und internationalen Präsenz zu einem offenen und zukunftsweisenden Gedankenaustausch einlädt. Neben dem wissenschaftlichen Programm hoffen wir Ihnen auch im Rahmen der Abendveranstaltung etwas von der Attraktivität der Stadt vermitteln zu können.
Ihr Prof. Peter Neuhaus
Nathanael Raschzok defended thesis "summa cum laude"
25 April 2009 - 23:22 Filed in: General
Transplantation of primary human hepatocytes is a promising approach in certain liver diseases. For visualisation of hepatocytes during and following cell application and the ability of a timely response to potential complications, a non-invasive modality for imaging of the transplanted cells has to be established. The aim of his studies was to label primary human hepatocytes with micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs), enabling the detection of cells by clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The feasibility of preparing MPIO-labelled primary human hepatocytes detectable by clinical MR equipment was shown in vitro. MPIO-labelled cells could serve for basic research and quality control in the clinical setting of human hepatocyte transplantation.
He also investigated techniques for evaluation of the particle uptake via continuum source atomic absorption spectrometry (CSAAS). Porcine liver cells were labelled with MPIOs and the iron concentration of the cell samples was investigated by a CSAAS spectrometer equipped with a Perkin-Elmer THGA graphite furnace. CSAAS enabled rapid quantification of particle load from small quantities of cells without extensive preparation steps. CSAAS could be used for quality control in a clinical setting of cell transplantation.
Hypothermia induced endothelial dysfunction
05 April 2009 - 23:23 Filed in: Publications
Hypothermia is used to preserve organs for transplant and it is the oldest method to protect organs during complex pediatric cardiac surgery. Loss of tissue function and tissue edema are common complications in children undergoing cardiac surgery and heart transplantation. The present study was designed to examine the effects of methylprednisolone (MP) and Tacrolimus (TAC) on endothelial cell function and morphology after deep hypothermia and rewarming. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were pretreated with MP and/orTAC and incubated either within a specially designed bioreactor or in monolayers. They were then exposed to a dynamic cooling and rewarming protocol. Immunocytochemistry, time lapse video microscopy within the SlideReactor bioreactor system, cell permeability and adherence assays and western blot analysis were performed. Confluent endothelial cells exposed to hypothermia displayed elongated cell shapes with intercellular gap formation, increased endothelial cell-layer permeability and loss in adherence. Upon rewarming, however, endothelial cell integrity was restored. Opening and closing of intercellular gaps was dependent on ERK 1/2 activation and connexin 43 (Cx43) expression. The combined treatment with MP and TAC inhibited these hypothermia-induced changes. These results suggest that MP and TAC inhibit hypothermia induced endothelial gap formation via pERK 1/2 inhibition and connexin 43 stabilization. Application of combined drugs that affect multiple targets may therefore be considered as a possible new therapeutic strategy to prevent endothelial dysfunction after hypothermia and rewarming.
CSAAS and MPIO-labelled cells
04 March 2009 - 23:24 Filed in: Publications
Detection of cells after transplantation is necessary for quality control in regenerative medicine. Labelling with micron-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) enables non-invasive detection of single cells by magnetic resonance imaging. However, techniques for evaluation of the particle uptake are challenging. The aim of this study was to investigate continuum source atomic absorption spectrometry (CSAAS) for this purpose. Porcine liver cells were labelled with MPIOs and the iron concentration of the cell samples was investigated by a CSAAS spectrometer equipped with a Perkin-Elmer THGA graphite furnace. The weak iron line at 305.754 nm provides only about 1/600 sensitivity of the iron resonance line at 248.327 nm and was used for CSAAS measurements. Iron concentrations measured from labelled cells ranged from (5.8 ± 0.3) to (25.8 ± 0.9) pg Fe/cell, correlating to an uptake of (8.2 ± 0.5) to (25.7 ± 0.8) particles/cell. The results were verified by standardised morphometric evaluation. CSAAS enabled rapid quantification of particle load from small quantities of cells without extensive preparation steps. Thereby, CSAAS could be used for quality control in a clinical setting of cell transplantation.
Molekulare Bildgebung 2009 (MoBi)
01 March 2009 - 23:25 Filed in: Meetings
Mehr Informationen via http://www.mobi09.de .
XXXVI ESAO Congress
27 February 2009 - 23:25 Filed in: Meetings
The University of Technology of Compiègne (UTC) has a special position among the French Universities. Founded in 1973, one of its duties was to link student training, research and industry. More specifically, UTC pioneered the field of biomedical engineering in France, hosting specialists in solid and fluid biomechanics, biomaterials, artificial organs, physiology, medical signals and images, and further areas. The occasion of the present Congress will allow a unique analysis of the “Past and future roles of artificial organs in engineering for health". We will take advantage of the Jubilé for Prof. M.Y. Jaffrin to review the premises and accomplishments of hemodialysis. We will consider the state of the art of research for the most popular artificial organs (kidney, heart, liver), and the promises of new technologies such as regenerative medicine, micro and nanotechnologies, multiscale and integrated approaches. Our aim is to bring together and to foster exchange and collaboration among scientists, clinicians and industrial partners. Located very close to Paris (70 km away), to international Roissy/Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Beauvais airports (both 40 minutes away), Compiègne is very easy to reach. In the valley of the river "Oise", it is a tourist and resort centre with castles, museums and the Armistice Clearing. The castle was the autumn residence of Emperor Napoleon III. Even before today’s castle was constructed, Compiègne was the preferred summer residence for the monarchs of France, primarily for hunting given its proximity to the nearby forest. We look forward to welcoming you in Compiègne for the 2009 edition of the ESAO annual meeting.
Cécile Legallais
Congress President
Thank you for coming and bringing such good cheer !
09 February 2009 - 23:27 Filed in: General
Dr. med. Dominik Paul Modest
06 February 2009 - 23:29 Filed in: General
Inaugurative lecture of Dr. I.M. Sauer
01 February 2009 - 23:30 Filed in: General
Dr. M. Bahra & Dr. I.M. Sauer will celebrate their Habilitation February 6th, 2009
08 January 2009 - 23:31 Filed in: General
Dr. Igor M. Sauer: obtained postdoctoral lecture qualification (Habilitation) in Surgery
11 December 2008 - 23:34 Filed in: General
Management of Acute Kidney Problems
09 December 2008 - 23:34 Filed in: Publications
It also gives a detailed outline of important measures for their clinical management. This reference is intended as a helpful guide for all clinicians involved in the care of patients at risk of developing acute kidney problems.
The book is written for all clinicians who are involved in the care of patients at risk of developing acute kidney problems; e.g. fellows and residents in nephrology, intensive care, internal medicine, anaesthesiology, surgery, paediatrics, diagnostic and interventional radiology, urology, cardiology and clinical immunology.
PhD Student Award in Regenerative Medicine
18 October 2008 - 23:36 Filed in: General
Best Publication Award: The award will be granted for the most outstanding paper for progress in Regenerative Medicine accepted by a peer review journal in the last two years. The award comprises 1.500 Euro.
Best Presentation Award: The award will be granted for the best poster presented at an international conference with a peer review system within the last two years. The award comprises 500 Euro.
Info & Contact: BSRT, Charité Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, E-Mail: award@bsrt.de, Web: www.bsrt.de
Associated Investigator of BCRT
29 September 2008 - 23:36 Filed in: General
The Steering Committee of the Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT) decided to involve Igor Sauer and his group as an Associated Investigator (AI).
The BCRT is a cooperative research institution of the Charite University Hospital in Berlin and Germany's largest research association, the Helmholtz Association. BCRT also receives generous financial support from the BMBF and the states of Berlin and Brandenburg, as well as from the Technology Foundations in Berlin and Brandenburg, the Future Fund Berlin and from various industry partners. More than 15 regional partners from science and industry are active members of the consortium at the BCRT.
ESAO One Day on the Liver 2008 in Geneva
02 July 2008 - 23:37 Filed in: Meetings
The ESAO One Day on the Liver 2008 (ODOL) will take place Thursday, Sept. 4th, 2008.
Dr. med. Florian W.R. Vondran
09 May 2008 - 23:38 Filed in: General
Imaging of human hepatocytes via MPIO and MRI
02 April 2008 - 23:40 Filed in: Publications
Tat-peptide modified MPIO
01 April 2008 - 23:49 Filed in: Publications
Isolation of primary human hepatocytes
01 March 2008 - 23:50 Filed in: Publications
Paul P.C. Poyck (AMC) defended his thesis
13 September 2007 - 23:52 Filed in: General
Paul P.C. Poyck from the Department of Surgery (Experimental Surgery) of the Academic Medical Center (AMC), University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands, successfully defended his thesis entitled "Towards application of a human liver cell line for use in the AMC bioartificial liver".
The Berlin group congratulates him and Prof. Chamuleau for his great work!
The Berlin group congratulates him and Prof. Chamuleau for his great work!
ESAO Board of Governors - I.M. Sauer elected
10 September 2007 - 23:53 Filed in: General
ESAO 2007 - Presentations
08 September 2007 - 23:54 Filed in: Meetings
- N. Raschzok, M.H. Morgul, F.W.R. Vondran, R. Schwartlander, I.M. Sauer: The SlideObserver – A new concept for the parallel operation of two SlideReactor bioreactor systems
- M.H. Morgul, N. Raschzok, R. Schwartlander, F.W.R. Vondran, G. Pless, J. Pinkernelle, U. Teichgraber, I.M. Sauer: Transplantation of primary human hepatocytes – iron oxide labelling for cell detection via MRI
- F.W.R. Vondran, E. Katenz, R. Schwartlander, M.H. Morgul, N. Raschzok, X. Gong, X. Cheng, P. Neuhaus, I.M. Sauer: Impact of donor liver characteristics on the cell function of primary human hepatocytes
Article among top 10 most cited in AO
02 August 2007 - 23:59 Filed in: General
The Editor-in-Chief Paul S. Malchesky informed us that the article "Modular Extracorporeal Liver Support" is among top 10 most cited in Artificial Organs for the year 2006.
The article "`Blogs` and `Wikis Are Valuable Software Tools for Communication Within Research Groups" was number three of the five most-accessed articles in different areas of artificial organs research from 2006.
The article "`Blogs` and `Wikis Are Valuable Software Tools for Communication Within Research Groups" was number three of the five most-accessed articles in different areas of artificial organs research from 2006.
Retreat 2007
15 July 2007 - 00:00 Filed in: General
MELS CellModule vs. AMC-BAL
01 July 2007 - 00:01 Filed in: Publications
Charité Biomedical Entrepreneurship Summit
30 May 2007 - 00:02 Filed in: General
International Medical Students Research Congress
29 April 2007 - 22:45 Filed in: Meetings
11th WAA & 6th ISFA World Congress
16 February 2007 - 22:43 Filed in: Meetings
These two societies serve a regular meeting every two years. This is the first combined congress of the two Societies. It is really an anniversary congress. Many lecture, symposium, workshop and seminars are planned in the congress. Highly scientific papers will be presented at free communications and poster sessions. Several supports will be provided to the participants from developing countries. At the same period, 27 th Annual Meeting of Japanese Society for Apheresis (JSFA) will be held in the adjacent venue. I expect the full communication between foreign guests and Japanese participants.
All scientists, researchers, clinicians and co-medicals of are encouraged to submit abstracts and join this anniversary congress.
More information via the official webpage.
Dr. rer. medic. Gesine Pless
01 February 2007 - 20:42 Filed in: General
Gesine Pless took another major step in her career by defending her doctoral thesis "magna cum laude". Being (co-)author of more than 16 papers in peer reviewed journals she analysed primary human liver cells from donor organs unsuitable for transplantation cultivated in bioreactors. As each system contains cells originating from an individual organ, each bioreactor culture must be individually characterized. The objective of her study was to identify suitable decisive parameters for the evaluation of cell culture performance.
Dr. rer. medic. Ruth Schwartlaender
22 January 2007 - 18:01 Filed in: General
SlideReactor: Proof of concept
08 January 2007 - 22:38 Filed in: Publications
Moreover, the editors have chosen one of the figures showing fluorsecent staining of primary human hepatocytes cultured within the SlideReactor as cover-art!
Certain cell types, especially primary human cells, favor a well-defined culture environment offering continuous supply of nutrients and oxygen and waste product removal. Several bioreactors based on special matrices or hollow fibers have been developed that provide such conditions. However, characterization of matrix re-organization or growth of tissue within these systems is possible only after culture termination. Evaluation of the influence of certain medium additives or culture conditions (e.g., temperature, oxygenation) on cell viability, expansion, and differentiation within these systems remains a challenging task. The SlideReactor, a miniaturized hollow fiber-based bioreactor, was developed to enable the observation of cells during culture. An operation concept offering predefined conditions for various cell types has been designed. For proof of concept, primary human cells (hepatocytes, fibroblasts, keratinocytes) and cell lines (HepG2, HuH7, C3A, WiDr, SkHep1) were cultured and observed. A series of experiments (n = 40) showed the feasibility of the set-up; determination of process parameters and continuous observation is possible. The SlideReactor may serve as a simple and cost-efficient tool for cell characterization and optimization of cell-culture conditions.
Trehalose cryoprotective
03 January 2007 - 22:37 Filed in: Publications
Charité Welcome Center
14 August 2006 - 10:10 Filed in: General
Contact: Pamela Glowacki phone: +49 30 4505-70076
Monika Schnitger phone: +49 30 4505-70077
Email: info.international@charite.de
43rd Meeting of the Society for Cryobiology
15 June 2006 - 07:00 Filed in: Meetings
More information via www.cryo2006.org.
5th World Congress of Biomechanics 2006
03 June 2006 - 22:34 Filed in: Meetings
The Institut of Biotechnik e.V. together with the Technical University of Munich and Munich University of Applied Sciences cordially invite you to the 5th World Congress of Biomechanics 2006.
Biomechanics covers a wide field from solid to fluid mechanics, from motion sports mechanics to automobile crash tests. It includes tissue engineering and biomaterials, artificial organs and sports therapy. At the 5th World Congress the newest experimental studies will be presented. Special emphasis will be placed on state-of-the art technology and medical applications. Only new, unpublished papers will be accepted.
The 5th World Congress of Biomechanics will explore topics of interest to:
* physicans
* bioengineers
* mechanical and aerospace engineers
* clinicians in cardiology and other cardiovascular specialties
* vascular surgeons
* radiologists
* neurologists and neurosurgeons
* orthopedic surgeons
* specialists in areas such as bone, ligaments, tissue mechanics, biologists, biochemists, biophysicists, biorheologist
More information via www.wcb2006.org .
ESOT Basic Science Network
01 June 2006 - 05:01 Filed in: Meetings
PhD students, both young physicians and scientists, are encouraged to submit a short letter of motivation and a brief abstract describing their laboratory experiences and PhD project, which has to be sent by e-mail to Dr. Carla C. Baan:
Hands-on-Course Recent developments of in vitro test systems allow us to study anti-donor responses at large in both experimental models and in patient materials. However, to understand the mechanisms underlying biological phenomena in transplantation, knowledge and practical experience of laboratory techniques is required. The hands on training in laboratory techniques aims to teach young doctors and scientists in molecular biology techniques, flow cytometry based techniques, and functional assays including ELIspot. The educational objective of the course is to learn the laboratory techniques (theory and practice) needed for our understanding of immune responses in experimental transplant models and in patients.
Special issue of Therapeutic Apheresis and Dialysis: Cell-Free Artificial Liver Support
01 May 2006 - 22:32 Filed in: Publications
Therapeutic Apheresis and Dialysis, April 2006 - Vol. 10 Issue 2:
S. Mitzner et al.: Albumin Regeneration in Liver Support—Comparison of Different Methods J. Patzer: Principles of Bound Solute Dialysis J. Vienken et al.: How Can Liver Toxins be Removed? Filtration and Adsorption With the Prometheus System K. Rifai et al.: Review Article: Clinical Experience With Prometheus J. Rozga et al.: A Novel Plasma Filtration Therapy for Hepatic Failure: Preclinical Studies S.R. Ash: Sorbent Suspensions vs. Sorbent Columns for Extracorporeal Detoxification in Hepatic Failure D. Falkenhagen: Fluidized Bed Adsorbent Systems for Extracorporeal Liver Support L.J. Li: Artificial Liver Support System in China: A Review Over the Last 30 Years R.A.F.M. Chamuleau: Bioartificial Liver: Its Pros and Cons W. Bernal et al.: Cell-Free Artificial Liver Support: Design of Appropriate Clinical Studies with a guest editorial by I.M. Sauer and U. Baurmeister: Cell-Free Artificial Liver Support.
Articles in the top 25 / top 10 articles viewed online
05 March 2006 - 22:31 Filed in: Publications
Paul S. Malchesky, Editor-in chief of Artificial Organs, informed us that the articles "In vitro evaluation of the transportability of viable primary human liver cells originating from discarded donor organs in bioreactors" (Artificial Organs 2005, 29: 141-151) and "'Blogs' and 'Wikis' are valuable software tools for communication within research groups" (Artificial Organs 2005, 29: 82-83) were in the top 25 and top 10, respectively, concerning articles viewed online in 2005 at Blackwell Synergy. The latter was N°. 2 of Artifcial Organs in 2005...
Chirurgische Forschung
06 February 2006 - 12:29
ESAO 2006 in Umeå, Sweden - Call for abstracts
24 January 2006 - 22:30 Filed in: Meetings
On behalf of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO), Working Group Liver Support, I would like to invite you and your colleagues to submit abstracts for this year’s ESAO meeting held in Umeå , Sweden, from June 21-24, 2006. The Congress will be combined with a meeting with the European Society For Haemapheresis (ESFH, June 20 and 21). Umeå is located close to the polar circle and at this time of the year it has exiting bright nights. The social program will focus on various outdoor and cultural activities and together with the scientific resources of the Congress speakers and participants it will be a strong recipe for success in this venture.
The One Day on the Liver this year will focus on the on the latest developments and clinical results concerning MARS, Prometheus, SEPET, SPAD, and other artificial detoxification systems. Furthermore, the biophysical principles and possible standards for an appropriate clinical evaluation of today's artificial liver support concepts will be discussed. We are expecting the following speakers:
- Julia Wendon (King's College, London, UK)
- Jack Patzer (University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA)
- Robert A.F.M. Chamuleau (AMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands)
- Stephen R. Ash (HemoCleanse, Inc., Lafayette, USA)
- Peter Krisper (University Graz, Graz, Austria)
- Dieter Falkenhagen (Donau-Universität Krems, Krems, Austria)
- Steffen Mitzner (University Rostock, Rostock, Germany)
- Jacek Rozga (Arbios Systems Inc., Los Angeles, USA)
- Igor M. Sauer (Charité, Berlin, Germany)
The official webpage provides all the necessary information. Deadline for submitting an abstract will be February 28th, 2006.
World Congress on Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering 2006 in Seoul
21 January 2006 - 18:29 Filed in: Meetings
Dear Colleagues,
I'm pleased to announce that the World Congress on Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering 2006 (WC2006) will be held on August 27 to September 1, 2006 in Seoul, Korea. under the Congress Theme: Imaging the Future Medicine. The scientific program will include plenary lectures, sponsored symposia, regular oral and poster sessions.
The Second Announcement, which includes: detailed information on registration procedure, (fees, hotel accommodation, travel information, scientific and social programs), call for papers, as well as registration forms (abstract submission and hotel accommodation) is available via www.wc2006-seoul.org.
During the congress the scientific track of Artificial Organs will be organized. In order to secure high scientific level of our discipline some of our distinguish colleagues from the ESAO agreed to chair the sessions, that is: Prof. Horst Klinkmann (session: adsorption, apheresis, detoxification), Dr Gerhard Rakhorst (session: cardiac assist devices and cardiovascular implants and prosthesis), and Prof. Dieter Falkenhagen (session: cell implants interactions - biocompatibility). Additionally I have asked to organize some sessions by our colleagues from Japan and USA: Prof. K. Imachi (session: artificial heart), Prof. Yoshida (orthopedic and dental prosthesis and implants) and Prof. D. Klonoff (session: artificial pancreas).
The deadline for abstract submission is 28th of February. I would like to cordially invite you to prepare abstracts as well as to stimulate other researchers to submit appropriate contributions. Think about supporting Artificial Organs scientific track on the biggest congress organized in the field of biomedical engineering and medical physics.
With best regards
Prof. Jan Maria Wojcicki
Cochairman of the track Artificial Organs
For detailed information please contact Ms Mandy Kim - congress manager,
Address: WC 2006 Congress secretariat,
SL. Gangnam P.O.Box 305, Seoul 135-603, Korea, phone: 822-3476- 7700/7723 (Dir), Fax:822-337-6451/3476-8800, E- mail: wc2006@koconex.com
I'm pleased to announce that the World Congress on Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering 2006 (WC2006) will be held on August 27 to September 1, 2006 in Seoul, Korea. under the Congress Theme: Imaging the Future Medicine. The scientific program will include plenary lectures, sponsored symposia, regular oral and poster sessions.
The Second Announcement, which includes: detailed information on registration procedure, (fees, hotel accommodation, travel information, scientific and social programs), call for papers, as well as registration forms (abstract submission and hotel accommodation) is available via www.wc2006-seoul.org.
During the congress the scientific track of Artificial Organs will be organized. In order to secure high scientific level of our discipline some of our distinguish colleagues from the ESAO agreed to chair the sessions, that is: Prof. Horst Klinkmann (session: adsorption, apheresis, detoxification), Dr Gerhard Rakhorst (session: cardiac assist devices and cardiovascular implants and prosthesis), and Prof. Dieter Falkenhagen (session: cell implants interactions - biocompatibility). Additionally I have asked to organize some sessions by our colleagues from Japan and USA: Prof. K. Imachi (session: artificial heart), Prof. Yoshida (orthopedic and dental prosthesis and implants) and Prof. D. Klonoff (session: artificial pancreas).
The deadline for abstract submission is 28th of February. I would like to cordially invite you to prepare abstracts as well as to stimulate other researchers to submit appropriate contributions. Think about supporting Artificial Organs scientific track on the biggest congress organized in the field of biomedical engineering and medical physics.
With best regards
Prof. Jan Maria Wojcicki
Cochairman of the track Artificial Organs
For detailed information please contact Ms Mandy Kim - congress manager,
Address: WC 2006 Congress secretariat,
SL. Gangnam P.O.Box 305, Seoul 135-603, Korea, phone: 822-3476- 7700/7723 (Dir), Fax:822-337-6451/3476-8800, E- mail: wc2006@koconex.com
2006 ESAO meeting in Umea, Sweden
29 December 2005 - 22:28 Filed in: Meetings
The 2006 meeting of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO) will be held in Umea, which is located in the northern part of Sweden, from 21-24 June. At that time, the country celebrates the longest day, a day with 24 hours daylight.
The program is adapted to this biorhytm phenomenon and will start early in the morning (07.30) and will end each day at 16.00 hours. Professor Stegmayr organized various social and sports events that will start after the scientific sessions, to stimulate young researchers to contact with each other and with the experts in the field. Due to the fact that the 2006 congress takes place rather early in the congress season, the deadline for submission of abstracts will be in February 2006. Detailed information will be provided to you in the Second Announcement, that will be mailed to you within a few weeks. For more information please visit the official webpage.
Umea is a very nice city and can be reached be plane from Stockholm easily. The city is the fasted growing town of Sweden. It has approximately 100,000 inhibitants and 30,000 students. Because many members will combine this congress with a short vacation, Professor Stegmayr has organized an unique post congress trip to the Northcape.
ESOT Basic Science Committee Travel Awards
17 December 2005 - 22:27 Filed in: Meetings
In support of one of the BSC strategies, ESOT has made available a number of small Travel Grants (€500 per applicant) to support the travel of individuals wishing to visit a European laboratory outside their own country that can offer a specific technique or expertise. Applications for funding should be made to the members of the ESOT Basic Sciences Committee via the ESOT Secretariat.
Gene transfer into primary human hepatocytes
28 November 2005 - 12:28 Filed in: Publications
BMBF prize for medical technology awarded
16 November 2005 - 22:25 Filed in: Projects
Artificial Liver Support
02 November 2005 - 17:24 Filed in: Publications
For more than 25 years clinicians and scientists have been trying to improve the treatment of acute hepatic failure. Several devices were developed and hemodialysis procedures were refined. The treatment of fulminant hepatic failure and end-stage liver cirrhosis by liver transplantation became a standard procedure. However, for the successful management of critical situations before and after liver surgery, artificial liver support is still needed. The results achieved with albumin dialysis (MARS System), the Prometheus System, and dialysis and hemofiltration or plasma exchange as well as modular extracorporeal liver support (MELS) and the Amsterdam bioartificial liver (AMC BAL) are discussed in detail regarding their effects in different clinical situations.
In the second half of the book, the remaining problems and expectations for the future of clinical hepatocyte transplantation and stem cell therapy are elucidated.
Leading experts in the fields of artificial devices, bioartificial devices, hepatocyte transplantation and stem cells present the latest data on these topics. Their experience and their data are summarized in this volume, thus providing an exceptional overview of the problems and future perspectives in the field of artificial liver support.
Artificial Liver Support Series: Falk Symposium, Vol. 145 Henne-Bruns, D.; Buttenschön, K.; Fuchs, M.; Lohse, A. (Eds.) Springer-Verlag 2005 (ISBN: 1-4020-3239-0)
2nd Swiss Experimental Surgery Symposium
10 October 2005 - 11:27 Filed in: Meetings
A wide panel of Swiss and international experts are invited to make it a state-of-the-art symposium. Such meetings are not only important for the teaching of technical aspects, but they also give the opportunity to consider ethical and regulatory aspects of animal use for experimentation. Finally, the human networking aspect of such a meeting and exchanging ideas and knowledge is equally important. More information here.
Presentations at the ESAO 2005
25 September 2005 - 22:22 Filed in: Meetings
Looking forward to meeting you in Bologna !
The following presentations will give an update on some of our projects:
Oral Presentations The slidereactor – evaluation of a hollow fiber based bioreactor suitable for light microscopy R. Schwartlander, J. Schmid, E. Katenz, X. Cheng, G. Pless, X. Gong, F. Vondran, P. Neuhaus, I.M. Sauer (Berlin, Germany)
Cryopreservation of primary human hepatocytes – protective effect of trehalose? F. Vondran, E. Katenz, X.B. Gong, X.D. Cheng, R. Schwartlander, P. Neuhaus, I.M. Sauer (Berlin, Germany)
First in vitro comparison of two bioartificial liver support systems: MELS CellModule and AMC-BAL P.P. Poyck, G. Pless, R. Hoekstra, S. Roth, A.C.W.A. van Wijk, R. Schwartlander, T.M. van Gulik, I.M. Sauer, R.A. Chamuleau (Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Berlin, Germany)
First results in continuous albumin veno-venous haemodiafiltration in acute liver failure (ALF) H. Ringe, M. Zimmering, W. Luck, I.M. Sauer (Berlin, Germany)
Poster Presentations Acute liver failure: fractionated plasma separation/adsorption (FPSA) and high-flux hemodialysis (HD) - Bridging therapy to LTX G. Junge, S. Kohler, L. Schewior, I.M. Sauer, A. Pascher, P. Neuhaus (Berlin, Germany)
Time-course maintenance of specific functional activity in cultured human hepatocyte E.A. Katenz, F.W.R. Vondran, X.B. Gong, X.D. Cheng, R. Schwartlander, P. Neuhaus, I.M. Sauer (Berlin, Germany)
Effect of matrine on the expression of cytochrome P-450, 2A6, and 2B6 of primary human hepatocytes X. Gong, E.A. Effimova, F.W.R. Vondran, X. Cheng, R. Schwartlander, D. Yang, P. Neuhaus, I.M. Sauer (Berlin, Germany; Guangzhou, Hangzhou, China)
EPGS: One Day On Acute Liver Failure
22 August 2005 - 22:20 Filed in: Meetings
GRAND ROUNDS DER MEDIZINISCHEN KLINIKEN
18 August 2005 - 12:21 Filed in: Meetings
Thema: "Tödliche Verwechselungen (Therapie der Konollenblätterpilvergiftung)"
Referenten:
Dr. J. Schefold, Med. Klinik m.S. Nephrologie u. Int. Intensivmedizin, CVK
PD Dr. T. Berg, Med. Klinik m.S. Hepatologie/Gastroenterologie, CVK
Dr. I.M. Sauer, Chirurgie, CVK
Diskutant: Prof. Dr. Dörken, Med. Klinik m.S. Hämatologie/Onkologie
Dienstag, 23.08.2005, 13.00 Uhr im Kursraum 6, Mittelallee 10, Untergeschoss, der Charité - Campus Virchow. Die Veranstaltung ist zertifiziert und ergibt 1 Weiterbildungpunkt der ÄK.
Referenten:
Dr. J. Schefold, Med. Klinik m.S. Nephrologie u. Int. Intensivmedizin, CVK
PD Dr. T. Berg, Med. Klinik m.S. Hepatologie/Gastroenterologie, CVK
Dr. I.M. Sauer, Chirurgie, CVK
Diskutant: Prof. Dr. Dörken, Med. Klinik m.S. Hämatologie/Onkologie
Dienstag, 23.08.2005, 13.00 Uhr im Kursraum 6, Mittelallee 10, Untergeschoss, der Charité - Campus Virchow. Die Veranstaltung ist zertifiziert und ergibt 1 Weiterbildungpunkt der ÄK.
Webcast of 8th meeting of CTF
02 August 2005 - 22:19 Filed in: Meetings
Article in the top 25 most viewed
03 June 2005 - 22:17 Filed in: Publications
S. Malchesky, the Editor-in-Chief of Artificial Organs, informed us that our article 'Blogs' and 'wikis' are valuable software tools for communication within research groups. was among the top 25 most viewed online in 2005 to date at Blackwell Synergy in general !
The European artificial organ scene: present status
02 June 2005 - 08:55 Filed in: Publications
ESAO Meeting 2005 in Bologna
14 April 2005 - 21:54 Filed in: Meetings
The XXXII Congress of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO) will be held in Bologna from 5 to 8 October, 2005. The Congress will be combined with the first Congress of the International Federation for Artificial Organs (IFAO), which is a newly formed ISAO-derived umbrella structure, embracing ESAO, the American Society for Artificial Internal Organs (ASAIO), the Japanese Society for Artificial Organs (JSAO) and the International Faculty for Artificial Organs (INFA). The annual "One day on the liver" held by the Liver Support Working Group (LSWG) will have a focus on research concerning liver support in China and will be a kick-off meeting for closer collaboration of the ESAO-LSWG with Chinese groups.
BMBF awarded new grant
15 March 2005 - 02:07 Filed in: Projects
The SlideReactor
23 February 2005 - 21:23 Filed in: Publications
3rd Int. Symp. on Hepatic failure and Artificial Liver
17 February 2005 - 21:10 Filed in: Meetings
Artificial Organs and Organ Transplantation
15 February 2005 - 17:49 Filed in: Meetings
Transportability of bioreactors
30 January 2005 - 03:47 Filed in: Publications
The use of primary human liver cells obtained from discarded donor organs is increasingly favored for cell-based extracorporeal liver support systems. However, as cryopreservation of primary human hepatocytes causes a significant loss of metabolic activity, the transport of bioreactors with viable liver cells is required. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of two major potential threats to viable cells during transport: temperature changes and mechanical stress. Methods: In each experiment three hollow fiber-based bioreactors were charged with primary human liver cells originating from the same discarded donor organ and were simultaneously kept under culture conditions for 8 days. In total, 18 bioreactors were evaluated. On the fifth day the bioreactors were exposed to hypothermia (4°C, n = 3), to hyperthermia (42°C, n = 3), or served as normothermic controls (37°C, n = 3). In a second test series bioreactors were exposed to vibration (21 Hz for 20 min, thereafter 7 Hz for 160 min, n = 3), or were operated as control cultures (n = 6). The release of hepatocyte-specific enzymes was determined as an indicator for cell damage. Results: Hypothermic stress resulted in a significant release of transaminases and led to disturbances of the histological integrity, all indicating a high degree of cell damage. When compared with the control cultures, hyperthermia and mechanical stress in terms of vibration had no significant effect on the cells. Conclusion: The transport of hollow fiber bioreactors charged with viable primary human liver cells appears to be feasible in transport monitors for perfusion and temperature control.
"Blogs" and "Wikis"
04 January 2005 - 19:46 Filed in: Publications
Kichchadi sums up some further ideas on using RSS, blogs and wikis in research and education: here and here.
At CiteULike and "Weblogs in Higher Education" further information is available.
U.S. National Library of Medicine
09 December 2004 - 23:51 Filed in: General
In antiquity, the body's internal structure was the subject of speculation, fantasy, and some study, but there were few efforts to represent it in pictures. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century-and the cascade of print technologies that followed-helped to inspire a new spectacular science of anatomy, and new spectacular visions of the body. Anatomical imagery proliferated, detailed and informative but also whimsical, surreal, beautiful, and grotesque — a dream anatomy that reveals as much about the outer world as it does the inner self.
Fritz Kahn (1888-1968): Der Mensch als Industriepalast (Man as Industrial Palace), Stuttgart, 1926. Chromolithograph, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Kahn’s modernist visualization of the digestive and respiratory system as "industrial palace," really a chemical plant, was conceived in a period when the German chemical industry was the world’s most advanced.
SPAD at Children’s Hospital, Seattle
15 November 2004 - 21:43 Filed in: Projects
M.I.T. Technology Review: Regenerative Medizin
01 November 2004 - 21:42 Filed in: Publications
Article on "MELS" in top 10 most cited AO articles
25 October 2004 - 21:41 Filed in: Publications
The Editor-in-Chief of Artificial Organs informed us that the article "Modular Extracorporeal Liver Support" - published in volume 26, issue 8 of Artificial Organs - was among the top 10 most cited for the year 2003!
FALK Symposium No 145: "Artificial Liver Support"
02 September 2004 - 23:39 Filed in: Meetings
The Falk Symposium No145 on Artificial Liver Support is held to provide an overview on the possibilities and limitations of the up-to-now existing procedures and devices available for artificial liver support. Future perspectives like stem cell differentiation and their therapeutical implications will also be discussed. Leading experts in the field of artificial devices, bioartificial devices, hepatocyte transplantation and stem cells will present the latest data on the various topics, thus promising a very exciting meeting which will be of high interest for all clinicians involved in the treatment of hepatic failure.
More information via http://www.medkongresse.de/gasl2005/. The program is available here. Registration may be performed via this document.
ESAO 2004: Working Group Liver Support
01 August 2004 - 20:20 Filed in: Meetings
For more information on this year's ESAO meeting in Warsaw including the full program please visit http://hrabia.ibib.waw.pl/esao2004/
Online Library: Historic Books
31 July 2004 - 21:32 Filed in: General
Via Stüber's Online Library more than 270 historic books in the fields of anatomy, botany, biology and genetics can be accessed. Amongst others Rudolf Virchow's "Die Freiheit der Wissenschaft im modernen Staat" (1877) is available!
Upcoming meetings...
23 July 2004 - 19:10 Filed in: Meetings
INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF BLOOD PURIFICATION 2nd Annual Meeting September 3 - 5, 2004 in London From September 3rd through 5th, 2004, the International Society of Blood Purification will hold its 22nd annual meeting at the Royal Free Hospital in London, Great Britain. In keeping with the society's tradition, this meeting will be organized to present cutting edge science in the field of blood purification, dialysis and the management of renal failure.
XX International Congress of The Transplantation Society September 5 - 10, 2004 in Vienna The XX International Congress of The Transplantation Society will be a celebration of decades of discoveries and application. The Society has promoted an intense cross-fertilization of basic science and clinical medicine and is one of the great examples of how a multidisciplinary approach facilitates progress.
XXXI Congress of the European Society for Artificial Organs (ESAO) September 8 - 11, 2004 in Warsaw Start of the new century is usually related to introduction of the new ideas and new technological visions. Therefore, theme motto of the XXXI Congress of the ESAO is “Towards Medical Technology of the Future”. We hope that our meeting in Warsaw will result in many presentations of realistic ideas, which will give not only a hope but will lead to efficient substitution or regeneration of the lost functions of the organism.
Interest in this webpage...
23 July 2004 - 09:11 Filed in: General
More than 200 unique visits were registered during the first month. Thanks for all the comments and critics!
Ruth Schwartlander receives grant
17 June 2004 - 21:34 Filed in: General
Ruth Schwartlander successfully applied for a grant by the Berliner Graduiertenförderung (NaFöG).
Evaluation of bioreactor systems
08 June 2004 - 22:23 Filed in: Projects
In vitro comparison test concerning the MELS CellModule and the AMC-BAL are currently performed in cooperation with the Academisch Medisch Centrum (AMC) in Amsterdam...
Hepatology: SPAD vs. MARS
27 April 2004 - 21:31 Filed in: Publications
The detoxification capacities of single-pass albumin dialysis (SPAD), the molecular adsorbents recirculation system, (MARS) and continuous veno-venous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) were compared in vitro. In each experiment 4,100 mL of toxin-loaded human plasma was processed for 6.5 hours. MARS treatment (n = 6) was undertaken in combination with CVVHDF. For SPAD (n = 6) and CVVHDF (n = 6) a high-flux hollow fiber hemodiafilter (identical to the MARS filter) was used. Levels of ammonia, urea, creatinine, bilirubin, and bile acids were determined. Concentrations before and after application of detoxification procedures were expressed as differences and were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Post hoc comparisons for pairs of groups were adjusted according to Bonferroni-Holm. Time, group, and interaction effects were tested using the nonparametric ANOVA model for repeated measurements. SPAD and CVVHDF induced a significantly greater reduction of ammonia levels than MARS. No significant differences were found among SPAD, MARS, and CVVHDF with respect to other water-soluble substances. SPAD induced a significantly greater reduction in bilirubin levels than MARS. Reductions in bile acid levels were similar for SPAD and MARS. When operating MARS in continuous veno-venous hemodialysis mode, as recommended by the manufacturer, no significant differences in the removal of bilirubin, bile acids, urea, and creatinine were found. However, MARS in continuous veno-venous hemodialysis mode was significantly less efficient in removing ammonia than MARS in CVVHDF mode. In conclusion, the detoxification capacity of SPAD is similar to or even greater than that of MARS. (HEPATOLOGY 2004;39:1408-1414.)
Warsaw ESAO Congress - Abstract submission
05 April 2004 - 11:11 Filed in: Meetings
Dear Colleagues,
The deadline for abstract submission is approaching (26th of April).
Unfortunately, up to now, very few contributions have been submitted. We ask
all of you to prepare abstracts as well as to stimulate other researchers to
submit appropriate contribution.
Think about supporting ESAO and Warsaw ESAO Congress !
The deadline for abstract submission is approaching (26th of April).
Unfortunately, up to now, very few contributions have been submitted. We ask
all of you to prepare abstracts as well as to stimulate other researchers to
submit appropriate contribution.
Think about supporting ESAO and Warsaw ESAO Congress !
Florian Vondran receives grant
02 April 2004 - 11:29 Filed in: General
Florian Vondran, currently working on his doctoral thesis (cryopreservation of primary human liver cells) qualified for a grant from the Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes. As he already receives a grant of the Charité, financial support has been temporarily waived.