Optogenetics is opening new paths in medicine: Through targeted light control of genetically modified nerve cells, innovative therapies for deafness, blindness, gastroparesis, or motor impairments could soon become a reality. At the Else Kröner Fresenius Center for Optogenetic Therapies, researchers are working to make this groundbreaking technology usable for clinical applications.
Activity
with Light
Else Kröner-Fresenius Foundation
Promote Research.
Help People.
The Else Kröner-Fresenius Foundation supports medical research and humanitarian projects.
With over 2,600 funded initiatives and an annual funding volume of more than 70 million euros, it is one of the largest foundations of its kind.
The foundation is primarily financed through dividends from the healthcare group Fresenius, of which it is the main shareholder.
Optogenetics for Clinical Application
Into the Cell
with Light
At the Else Kröner Fresenius Center for Optogenetic Therapies, new clinical applications are being developed that use light to precisely control nerve cells.
This is made possible by light-sensitive proteins (opsins) that are specifically introduced into certain cell types.
This leads to innovative treatment approaches for deafness, blindness, gastroparesis, and motor deficits.
The goal is to translate optogenetics from basic research into therapeutic practice—for patients who currently have few treatment options.
EKFZ Academy for Optogenetic Therapies
Advanced Training
in Research
The academy of the Else Kröner Fresenius Center is aimed at outstanding early-career female scientists who are passionate about translating basic research into clinical applications and transferring knowledge to industry.
Its goal is to train a new generation of translational scientists.
The interdisciplinary training program covers topics such as patent law, GMP/GCP, drug approval, and medical statistics.
In addition, the academy offers opportunities for exchange with ethics committees, authorities such as PEI and BfArM, as well as insights into industry and start-ups.
