Research professorships
The IFB AdiposityDiseases sets priorities in its scientific work by establishing five research professorships. There are professorships for the endocrinology, for molecular imaging, for behavioral medicine, for the genetics of obesity and diabetes as well as for bariatric surgery.
Endocrinology of obesity
Mathias Fasshauer is professor for endocrinology of obesity at the IFB AdiposityDiseases. He and his scientific team examin which hormones of the adipose tissue (adipokines) contribute to the development of obesity and its complications. The focus is on the adipokines adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (AFABP), vaspin and chemerin.
Molecular imaging in obesity
Swen Hesse holds the professorship for molecular imaging at the IFB. The researchers of Prof. Hesse's team investigate, which central mechanisms in the brain contribute to the development of adiposity. They also examine which role neurotransmitters play and whether obesity associated central changes can be influenced by therapeutic interventions.
Behavioral medicine
Anja Hilbert is professor for behavioral medicine in obesity at the IFB. She and her scientific team research the psychosocial factors that promote developing and maintaining adiposity or obesity-associated eating disorders (e. g. binge eating disorder). They also examine which interventions are effective in the therapy and prevention of obesity and associated disorders. Learn more
Bariatric surgery
Arne Dietrich is professor for bariatric surgery at the IFB. He and his research team examine among others, which bariatric operations are appropriate for young patients, how the intensice care during and after the surgery as well as the after care can be improved.
Adiposity- and diabetes genetics
Peter Kovacs is professor for the genetics of adiposity and diabetes. He and his team of researchers scrutinize, which genetic factors regulate the distribution and functions of the adipose tissue. They also analyse which genetic determinants influence the production and effect of adipokines. The interplay of gene-variations and neural mechanisms is an additional focus of research.
