The interdisciplinary research network investigates the complex mechanisms that underpin the development and effects of obesity, focusing on three central research questions: what role does the central nervous system play in the development of obesity? What changes in adipose tissue contribute to concomitant diseases? What signals from adipose tissue lead to type 2 diabetes and other cardiometabolic diseases?
The prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically worldwide in recent years. In Germany, it affects around 24 per cent of adults and represents a major challenge for the health service and wider society.
CRC 1052 is founded on a strongly interdisciplinary approach involving numerous university institutions and external research groups. “The extension of the Collaborative Research Centre is an important signal for the University, because the topic of modern diseases is at the heart of one of our profile areas in research. I would like to thank all the scientists involved for their immense commitment. We will now consistently pursue the path we have chosen and further increase Leipzig’s visibility as a centre of obesity research both at home and abroad,” said Rector Professor Beate Schücking.
Obesity is among the most damaging modern diseases, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, dementia, depression and some cancers. The aim of CRC 1052 is to further investigate causal mechanisms of obesity as well as concomitant diseases and to develop new therapies. In this context, the research results of the successful past eight years form the basis for establishing the new findings in practice during the final funding period. For example, the researchers have identified a central neuropeptide receptor that will now be specifically investigated as a therapeutic strategy to modulate food intake. Another success story from the last few years of research is the discovery that bacteria have an influence on inflammation in fat tissue cells in overweight people.
“We are delighted to be able to continue and intensify our research. We want to elucidate molecular mechanisms of obesity in order to be able to offer patients tailor-made therapies in the future. In our CRC, outstanding basic researchers and clinicians work very closely together,” said the Faculty of Medicine’s Professor Matthias Blüher, who is spokesperson of the CRC. “Particularly important to us is the promotion and qualification of early career researchers, who are involved in the research projects through an Integrated Research Training Group,” said the obesity researcher.
With its Collaborative Research Centres, the DFG supports long-term and innovative research institutions at universities with the aim of creating focal points. In addition, it supports the promotion of junior academics and also scientific and interdisciplinary cooperation.