Stem cell research New center in Münster

According to Federal Research Minister Annette Schavan (CDU) of the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, a reference center for stem cell research for 80 million euros is to be created in Münster. With the „Center for Applied Regenerative Development Technologies“ (CARE) the location in Münster would become the first address for stem cell research in Germany and also internationally significant. The Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine in Münster has existed since 2001. In addition to research on cell and developmental biology, research is also focused on vascular (vascular) cell biology and tissue biology and morphogenesis (development of organisms).

An important reason for the foundation of CARE is certainly also that cell biology and developmental biology at the Institute of molecular biologist Prof. Hans Schöler is entrusted. The Institute of Molecular Biomedicine already plays an important role in the conversion of body cells into stem cells. The stem cell researcher and prize winner of the renowned Robert Koch Prize, is director there. He is regarded in the scientific circles as a pioneer and thus a recognized expert in the field of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells). They are obtained from the body's own cells.

At CARE, drug research and medicine should be at the forefront of the work. Through studies on previously incurable diseases such as Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease, there should also be potential investment in the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, it should also be about interlinking practical aspects with basic research. Cooperations should also be established with other research institutes of the Max Planck Institute and, in addition, with university clinics and universities.

There are currently almost 150 employees from all over the world working there. In the future, 100 jobs will be added. North Rhine-Westphalia will contribute 60 million euros to the start-up funding of 80 million euros. Over 10 years, the funding is to run. (Thorsten Fischer, Naturopath Osteopathy, 17.04.2010)