Basic medical research

The Aquaculture Division addresses various biological issues, contributing to a more sustainable and diverse development of the Norwegian aquaculture industry.

The interaction of antigen-specific T and B cells is key for an effective adaptive immune response. T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are the T cell subset that provide B cell assistance during the germinal center reaction. Tfh cells are the prerequisite for the generation of high-affinity memory B cells and long-lived plasma cells. Therefore, manipulation of the Tfh response is of particular clinical interest for aiding in the generation of protective antibodies during vaccination or for eliminating harmful antibodies in autoimmune diseases and allergies [1].

The research activities of the Biological Sciences group focus on the following main areas.

1) Identification of new molecules targeting enzymes involved in neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

2) Central and local control of reproduction in mammalian and non-mammalian vertebrates by cannabinoids, environmental pollutants and endocrine disruptors.

The scientific focus of the IMPS relates to basic studies in the field of neuropsychobiology and behavioral medicine on learning and memory processes and information processing in the brain, especially in the areas of pain, addiction, psychotraumatology and across the lifespan (longitudinal cohort studies). At the institute, we also work with digital survey methods such as smartphone and tablet-based apps and virtual reality and are concerned with the evaluation of large longitudinal data sets from cohort studies.

Child/Adolescent Psychology Lab (CAPLab) brings together psychologists studying the psychology of children and adolescents, both from a developmental and a clinical perspective. CAPLab members are both researchers and practitioners (certified clinical psychologists, psychotherapists) basing their work on the idea of evidence-based assessment / treatment. Researches in the CAPLab focus on:

I am currently working on the immunologic features of human podocytes, as well as role of Klotho and NPP1 proteins in the course of diabetic nephropathy. Previously, I studied genetics and immunology of sarcoidosis and tuberculosis. I work with cell lines, I perform quantitative analyses of gene and protein expression. I also implement techniques like immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry, and analyse glycolitic parametres of podocytes by measurement of extracellular acidification.