Molecular Traumatology
The Molecular Traumatology Group investigates the molecular and cellular bases of clinically relevant questions in musculoskeletal surgery, focusing on pharmacologically exploitable signaling events.
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Trauma and Sepsis
Jessika Appelt, Denise Jahn, Puja Pandey, Michael Amling, Serafeim Tsitsilonis, Johannes Keller
Sepsis, a bacterial induced systemic inflammation reaction leading to multiple organ failure and therefore one of the most frightening and deathly complications after traumatic injuries, marks a global health problem. It often occurs after severe trauma and belongs to one of the main causes of death worldwide whereby the mortality rate reaches more than 50% with patients suffering from septic shock. Current treatment methods are limited and insufficient. Recent studies on the role of the sepsis marker PCT, a Calca-coded peptide showed promising results for possible targeted therapies, especially the antagonisation of its biological relevant receptor. However, the molecular function and role of PCT is still poorly investigated. We now are employing translational approaches to elucidate the molecular role of PCT during sepsis, using molecular and large-animal approaches. With the gained knowledge, we want to be able to develop novel pharmacologic approaches to treat affected patients and fight against one of the most appalling complications after traumatic injury.