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Institution
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität-Freiburg
Host
Institution(s)
The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA
Mentor: Iain L Campbell, Ph.D.
Interkeukin-6 (IL-6) plays an important role in the regulatory immune network in the central nervous system (cns). However, its effect on neuronal survival is still controversially discussed. Excitatory amino acids (EAAs), like glutamate, are commonly used to study neurodegeneration. They are discussed to promote neuronal cell death during acute brain injury like head trauma and ischemia, as well as to be involved in the pathogenesis of chronic neurological diseases like Parkinson's Disease, Huntington's Disease, andAlzheimer's Disease. We investigated the susceptability of cns specific IL-6 transgenic mice to excitotoxicity in comparison to TNF-alpha transgenic mice and normal litter mates.
First of all, it was of great value for me to experience research in the U.S. As I had decided to do my own project from the very beginning, I found it often hard to have the full responsibility for it and to be kind of exotic in the lab. Nevertheless, the intense working atmosphere is highly encouraging to come back to the U.S. for research purposes. Here in California I have seen that research can be done effectively without working all day and night, seven days a week. Especially at Scripps, there is a lot of discussion betwen the different labs as well as with those at UCSD, and one is able to get insight in various methods to address similar questions.
To get to know the American lifestyle also meant to question myself about the German life-style and my own personal habits. Therefore, this was not only a worthwhile approach to understanding the Americans but also to understanding myself better. I have met so many people with different histories, different lifestyles and different plans for the future in San Diego and among the participants of the program. Mainly due to them, I have had a lot of fun and a very enriching time.
To define my position in the lab.
It was funny to experience the time around Christmas here in California, with all the ornaments shaped like reindeer, Santa Claus, and Christmas trees fixed on the palm trees. Moreover, we had to listen to Christmas Carols ten hours a day in the lab from Thanksgiving until Christmas!
(1) Decide on your main goal. If all does not work out as planned, relax, and consider it a life experience as well as part of your medical career.
(2) In San Diego you will definitely need a car. An international license is invalid here, but you can use the German license for six months. Insurance is cheaper with a local license.
(3) Enjoy the BMEP-network and the possibility to visit others. A unique opportunity!