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Our Research Focus

Welcome to the fascinating world of RNA wonderland, where mysteries are unraveled and groundbreaking discoveries are made every day.

Nestled within the Department of Cardiovascular Research at the Heidelberg University lies a hub of international, multidisciplinary, highly motivated, ambitious, award-winning young researchers coupled with continuous thirst for innovation and excellence - the Stellos Lab.
Specializing in the intricate interplay among vascular biology, RNA biology, immunology, cardiometabolic and inflammatory diseases, the lab's mission is to decode the secrets of the RNA wonderland in the context of controlling cardiometabolic and inflammatory disorders.

What sets Stellos Lab apart is its holistic approach to research. By bridging the gap between various disciplines, the lab is able to uncover unique insights and avenues for exploration.

From training the next generation of research students to identifying novel therapeutic targets and disease biomarkers, Stellos Lab is at the forefront of cutting-edge research.

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Research Area A

Vascular Control of Inflammation

Cardiometabolic diseases have common traits like endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and fibrosis. The molecular mechanisms involved in their development are not well understood. Endothelial cells play a key role in the progression of these diseases by interacting with immune and tissue resident cells. The lab aims to understand how endothelial cells adapt to immune responses to cardiometabolic stress.

Research Area B

RNA Control of Human Disease

The Immunovascular Research Lab investigates how adenosine-to-inosine RNA editing may affect gene expression of key molecules required for the development and progression of atherosclerotic heart disease and autoimmune disorders.

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Research Area C

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Biomarker & Drug Discovery for Precision Vascular Medicine

We are researching how cardiometabolic treatments affect vascular adaptation and inflammation. Our expertise in RNA biology and disease models and human cohort studies help us identify new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cardiometabolic diseases.

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Research Area D

Blood Signals in Age-Related Diseases

To investigate the impact of blood and vascular signals on age-related diseases, researchers use liquid tissue biopsies, primary immune or endothelial cells, and advanced RNA technologies such as nanopore direct long RNA sequencing. The effectiveness of new disease biomarkers is validated in human cohort studies, demonstrating their potential for clinical use.

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