© Sebastian Hoppe
On September 16th, the DRESDEN-concept Science Tram was riding through Dresden again, this time featuring research in search of solutions for serious diseases.
Scientists in Dresden are investigating diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's and other diseases and are looking for therapies. In the science tram, more than 60 passengers experienced 90 minutes of discussing current research topics in the fields of stem cell transplantation, retina research, Alzheimer's disease and basic research with experts. Martin Stöter from the MPI-CBG explained how automated experimental set-ups are developed in the field of high-throughput screening. During the tram ride, he answered questions such as “What is a drug?” or “How long does it take to develop a drug from a discovery in basic research?”
© Sebastian Hoppe
An expert from the Center for Regenerative Therapies at the TU Dresden explained the latest research on possible retinal therapies by cell transplantation. The head of the experimental stem cell laboratory at the Medical Clinic 1 in the Department of Hematology/Oncology at the University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus discussed therapy options for cancer patients. A neuroscientist from the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases explained, how our brain can form new neurons when we suffer from Alzheimer's disease. The fifth expert came from the Leibniz Institute for Polymer Research (IPF) and develops materials and coatings for catheters, vascular stents, heart valves and artificial blood washing (dialysis).
It was a wonderful afternoon. Many thanks to all the experts, guests and our tram driver!