As a biomedical engineer, I pursued my PhD at the Department of Osteology and Biomechanics in Hamburg (Germany) performing an in-depth characterization of bone material quality in primary and secondary osteoporosis by applying material-science based approaches in combination with biological, biomechanical, and high-resolution imaging techniques. I primarily identified human cortical bone changes at different length-scales in individuals afflicted with diabetes mellitus. In further studies I analyzed the effects of osteoporosis medication on bone material quality and osteocyte viability in human bone tissue as well as the influence of microgravity on osteocytes in mice. My research activities and enthusiasm for science are driven by the interplay of different sciences and perspectives, while collaborations with researchers from different fields and places are inspiring me.
I am very happy to have recently joined the KMEB group to study the pathophysiology of bone fragility in patients with diabetes mellitus. Within this clinical-translational project we aim to identify microRNAs from the circulation and from the bone tissue that have an impact on the pathogenesis of diabetic bone disease. Our goal is to connect the changes in miRNA levels with the clinical characteristics of the patients to explore the potential of the identified microRNAs to serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for disease severity. By this I desire to contribute to the understanding of disease etiology, progression, and potential applications in clinical management of diabetic bone disease.
Wherever I go, a book to read, a book to write, and my ballet shoes are indispensable to me, seeking for a good coffee in the sun and a ballet class to participate.
