Helmholtz Munich at Bergson Kunstkraftwerk: From Concept to Reality – The Journey of the Weight Loss Injection
On October 22, science and culture converged in an exciting collaboration between Helmholtz Munich and the Bergson Kunstkraftwerk. At the inaugural event of the three-part Bergson Academy series, experts from Helmholtz Munich, along with a patient, shared insights into the revolutionary development of the weight loss injection and its impact on clinical practice.
A Vision and Tens of Years of Dedication
In his keynote address, Prof. Matthias Tschöp, CEO of Helmholtz Munich, recounted the lengthy and challenging journey to the creation of the weight loss injection. “Obesity is primarily a brain disease. With these new groundbreaking active ingredients, we can now treat this disease effectively for the first time.”
From Research to Real-World Application
The event featured an engaging discussion on the potential of this new therapy in combating the global obesity epidemic. Prof. Matthias Blüher, Director of the Helmholtz Institute for Metabolism, Obesity and Vascular Research (HI-MAG), underlined the significance of this development: “For the first time, we have a highly effective therapy to address severe obesity.” Particularly impressive was a patient’s personal testimony, describing how the treatment had transformed his life.
A Thoughtful and Engaged Audience
During the closing Q&A session, participants addressed common misconceptions about obesity and the media attention surrounding the weight loss injection. The lengthy development process from concept to product was also discussed, reinforcing that these drugs are not to be seen as mere lifestyle enhancements, but as crucial medical interventions.
Focus on Collaboration and Innovation
The cooperation between Helmholtz Munich and the Bergson Kunstkraftwerk fostered meaningful exchanges between scientists, patients, and the broader public. The event underscored Helmholtz Munich’s mission to not only pioneer scientific breakthroughs in the lab, but also to engage with society, making these innovations accessible and relevant to everyday life.
More Information:
Handout of the event (download, in German)
https://www.helmholtz-munich.de/en/newsroom/events/helmholtz-munich-at-bergson
Further events in the series:
November 11th, 2024, 7.00 pm
The Future of Medicine: What part will Germany play?
Prof. Dr. med. Dr. h.c. Matthias H. Tschöp (Helmholtz Munich), and Dr. Daniel Steiners (Roche Pharma AG)
November 25th 2024, 7.00 pm
Fit for the future: How can AI revolutionize health and medicine?
Dr. Carsten Marr (Helmholtz Munich), Dr. Rainer Hutka (Staatsministerium Gesundheit), and Peter Schardt (Siemens Healthineers)
Keynote talk held by Prof. Matthias Tschöp