Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB)

„After a stroke occurs, a series of different biological processes are set into motion. Some of these processes increase the damage already done, while others stem the damage and can even lead to the regaining of brain function“, explains Prof. Dr. Ulrich Dirnagl, Director of Experimental Neurology at the Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin and Representative Director of the CSB. „One of our research goals is to diagnose these processes in a detailed manner so that we can impede the harmful processes and boost the positive ones.“

A Quicker Recognition of Harmful Processes in the Body

In order to better understand the processes that take place in the body after a stroke, scientists are now using so-called „molecular markers“ to develop new diagnostic procedures. These markers are contrast agents that intentionally bind themselves to molecules and allow scientists to gain an exact insight into post-stroke development. In other words, molecular markers help to produce precise images of events occurring in the tissue and allow scientists to visualize harmful processes at an early stage without having to perform any invasive procedures. As Ulrich Dirnagl notes: „These procedures are brought together under the heading of ‘molecular imaging’ and are considered one of the most promising fields of medicine for both science and business. This applies not only to neurology, but also to cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal disease and oncology.“

New Opportunities Using the SPECT/CT System

In order to develop molecular markers, scientists in Berlin use a new, high-resolution technique known as the SPECT/CT, (SPECT = Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography; CT = Computed Tomography), which is ideal for providing images of small animals. As Dirnagl notes: „This technique allows us to generate non-invasive images of processes, such as inflammations and/or cell damage in the brain. It also allows us to map this damage in a very precise manner. The SPECT/CT-System is an important prerequisite for the development of molecular stroke markers.“

New Center for Small-Animal Imaging in Berlin

In addition to the imaging techniques already in place, a new „Center for Small-Animal Imaging“ is set to open at the Charité when all systems are operable in May 2010. The SPECT/CT is an integral part of a project that focuses on the development of new markers for stroke diagnostics. This project has been provided with €2.2 million in funding from the Zukunftsfonds Berlin („Berlin Future Funds“) via the Technologiestiftung Berlin (TSB). As Dr. Andreas Wunder, Project Manager and Head of AG Molekulare Bildgebung at the CSB notes: „The development of new markers would not be possible without this funding. In addition, the Center for Small-Animal Imaging is of tremendous importance for the capital region’s activities in the key-technology field of molecular imaging.“ Wunder has an optimistic outlook: The conditions for creating a leading role for Germany in the field of molecular imaging are very good.” 

Scientists and Entrepreneurs Combine Forces at the Imaging Network Berlin (INB)

At the Imaging Network Berlin (INB), a number of academic groups and companies, including Bayer Schering Pharma, Philips Healthcare and Siemens Medical Solutions, are currently working together to generate advances in the field of molecular imaging. This network has been active since 2006 and continues to enjoy success in promoting cooperation among regional science and business actors in the field of molecular imaging.

The TSB Technology Foundation Berlin is a private foundation whose goal is to provide support for science and research as well as to promote education relating to innovative scientific technologies.

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