Diabetes and Related Traits

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We aim to elucidate molecular mechanisms of metabolic diseases, using this information to refine subtype definitions for precision medicine.

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About our Research

Our research focuses on the molecular analysis of traits related to metabolic diseases. We combine state-of-the-art laboratory and statistical methods in large human cohorts to study the complex interplay between molecular mechanisms, environment and lifestyle in the context of the onset and progression of disease.

Dr. Harald Grallert

Scientist, Head of Research Group 'Diabetes and Related Traits'

Qiuling Dong

PhD Student

Jiefei Niu

PhD Student

Dr. Sapna Sharma

Senior Scientist

Markéta Fuchs (née Rynesova)

PhD Student

Claudia Corsten

TA

Andreas Schmidt

Guest PhD Student

Jiaqi Zheng

PhD Student

Homa Bazireh

PhD Student

Dr. Esienanwan Efiong

Postdoc

Dr. Elke Rodriguez

Senior Scientist

Aiman Farzeen

PhD Student

Chisom Soremekun

Visiting PhD Student

Jonathan Adam

Scientist

Sylwia Pietrasik

TA

Logo_DFG Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft

DFG

Precise characterization of metabolic risk loci using long-read NGS approach

In our project, we aim to analyze a T2D/prediabetes case-control cohort from the KORA FF4 study using a comprehensive genetic approach, incorporating Nanopore long read sequencing for fine mapping patient-specific risk loci.

NAKO

The German National Cohort (NAKO Gesundheitsstudie/NAKO) is a large, population-based prospective cohort focused on the investigation of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, rheumatism, infectious diseases, and dementia in order to identify molecular pathways, signatures and specific biomarkers for manifestation and progression of these major chronic diseases. Since its start in 2014 a total of 205.000 men and women aged between 20 and 69 from all over Germany participated in the baseline assessment including extensive interviews and questionnaires, comprehensive physical and medical examinations, and collection of various biomaterials. The repeated re-examination of all participants after 5 years within this large-scale cohort will serve as an excellent foundation to examine the complex interplay between environment, lifestyle, social factors and genetic predisposition and will allow for development and improvement of early disease detection, prevention and treatment.

NAKO Gesundheitsstudie

DZD

In the framework of the DZD we contribute molecular epidemiological resources in our cohorts (KORA, NAKO) to identify new biomarkers for prediction or improved prevention of cardiometabolic diseases. These resources will be further developed to be used to validate findings in animal or cell models on human population level.

T2D in African populations

The study aims to explore the genetics of type-2 diabetes in individuals of African ancestry, using diverse statistical methodologies and leveraging genomic data from countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, South Africa, Malawi, and Uganda. By identifying genetic variants associated with type-2 diabetes and evaluating their cumulative impact on an individual's susceptibility, the research aims to pave the way for precision medicine interventions tailored to the unique genetic makeup of diverse populations.

Biomarker Discovery for Diagnostic and Prognostic Purposes

Diabetic Nephropathy

We aim to identify early precise biomarkers of renal insufficiency in diabetic nephropathy (DN) before apparent changes in kidney function occurs. The research is targeted at proteomic signatures associated with DN in diabetic cohorts and explores the inhibitory efficacy of Vernonia amygdalina leaves and Aloe vera var chinensis root extracts on MST1, an enzyme linked to DN progression. Positive results could enhance differential diagnosis and intervention in DN, potentially improving life expectancy for individuals with diabetes.

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2022 Nature

Yengo L, Vedantam S, Marouli E et al.

A saturated map of common genetic variants associated with human height.

2022 Nat Genet

Mahajan A, Spracklen, CN, Zhang W et al.

Multi-ancestry genetic study of type 2 diabetes highlights the power of diverse populations for discovery and translation.

2022 Nat Cardiovasc Res

Spielmann N, Miller G, Oprea TI et al.

Extensive identification of genes involved in congenital and structural heart disorders and cardiomyopathy.