www.dkf.unibe.ch Jahresbericht 2012 Annual Report 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Group Members Five Selected Publications
Prof. Dr. Sabina Gallati, Head, Retrospective analysis of stored dried
Group Leader blood spots from children with cystic
Dr. Johannes Lemke, Group Leader fibrosis and matched controls to as-
Dr. André Schaller, Group Leader sess the performance of a proposed
Dr. Franziska Joncourt, newborn screening protocol in Switzer-
Research Assistant land. Barben, J; Gallati, S; Fingerhut,
Dr. Claudine Rieubland, Consultant R; Schoeni, MH; Baumgartner, MR;
Daniela Dumke, Laboratory Torresani, T (2012) in: J Cyst Fibros,
Technician (since July) 11(4), p. 332-336.
Ludmilla Lieder, Laboratory Identification of SNPs in the cystic
Technician (until Apr.) fibrosis interactome influencing pul-
Nadia Cassani, Secretary monary progression in cystic fibrosis.
Franziska Gisler, PhD Student Gisler, FM; von, KT; Kraemer, R;
Christopher Jackson, PhD Student Schaller, A; Gallati, S (2012) in:
Eur J Hum Genet.
Collaborators Duplication of the sodium channel
Biskup S, CeGa T, University gene cluster on 2q24 in children with
of Tübingen, Germany early onset epilepsy. Goeggel, SB;
Chanson M, University of Geneva, Rieubland, C; Courage, C; Strozzi, S;
Switzerland Tschumi, S; Gallati, S; Lemke, JR (2012)
Dorn T, Swiss Epilepsy Center, in: Epilepsia, 53(12), p. 2128-2134.
Switzerland qPCR-based mitochondrial DNA
Hahn D, Nuoffer JM, Inselspital, quantification: influence of template
Switzerland DNA fragmentation on accuracy.
Kröll J, Swiss Epilepsy Center, Jackson, CB; Gallati, S; Schaller,
Switzerland A (2012) in: Biochem Biophys Res
Lerche H, University of Tübingen, Commun, 423(3), p. 441-447.
Germany Targeted next generation sequenc-
Levinger L, The City University ing as a diagnostic tool in epileptic
of New York, USA disorders. Lemke, JR; Riesch, E;
Prokisch H, University of Technology, Scheurenbrand, T; Schubach, M;
Munich, Germany Wilhelm, C; Steiner, I; Hansen, J;
Stanke F, Hannover Medical School, Courage, C; Gallati, S; Burki, S;
Germany, Swiss CF Screening Group, Strozzi, S; Simonetti, BG; Grunt, S;
Switzerland Steinlin, M; Alber, M; Wolff, M;
Syrbe S, University of Leipzig, Klopstock, T; Prott, EC; Lorenz, R;
Germany Spaich, C; Rona, S; Lakshminarasimhan,
Weckhuysen S, University of M; Kroll, J; Dorn, T; Kramer, G;
Antwerp, Belgium Synofzik, M; Becker, F; Weber, YG;
Lerche, H; Bohm, D; Biskup, S (2012)
in: Epilepsia, 53(8), p. 1387-1398.

Grants
Amounts allocated for 2012:
–– SNF: Genetics of the Rare Epilepsies

(J. Lemke) CHF 103,742
–– Vinetum Foundation: Molecular

diagnostic in children with mito-
chondrial disorders (A. Schaller)
CHF 70,000
–– Gottfried und Julia Bangerter-Rhyner
Foundation: Mitochondriopathies;
characterisation of molecular mech-
anisms (S. Gallati) CHF 80,000

51 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Magnetic Resonance
Spectroscopy and Methodology,
AMSM

www.amsm.dkf.unibe.ch

Research Highlights 2012 / Outlook 2013 Prof. Dr. Chris Boesch
Our research is based on methodological developments and applications of [email protected]
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and/or spectroscopy (MRS) in humans. The Studied physics at ETH Zurich, PhD with Kurt
non-invasive observation of morphology and metabolism of the human body Wüthrich; studies in medicine, Swiss State
allows us to study physiology and pathology, together with the underlying License and MD, University of Zurich. Postdoc
mechanisms, in situ. Three SNF grants with PIs in our group and five SNF grants at University Children’s Hospital Zurich (1985-
in collaboration with other groups define the direction of our research. 1990). Since 1991, Professor at University of
Insulin resistance is one major area, which is also the “glue” for many col- Bern; DCR since 1995, Department of Diagnos-
laborations with internal (endocrinology, diabetology, hepatology) and external tic, Interventional and Paediatric Radiology,
(Lausanne (CH), Pittsburgh (US), Lyon (FR), Tübingen (DE)) groups. Since insulin Inselspital since 2011. Visiting Professor at
resistance is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and myo- Université Lyon 1 (FR) (2006). President of MR
cardial infarction, better understanding of this phenomenon will help us to Societies (ESMRMB 1997, ISMRM 2001). Silver
prevent these acute diseases. We study effects of chronic or acute exercise and medallist (ISMRM) and Fellow (ISMRM and
different kinds of carbohydrates, lipids, and amino acids on muscle and liver ESMRMB). Since 2008, President of SNF Re-
metabolism. In addition, volumes of body compartments, in particular visceral search Commission, University of Bern.
lipids, have been determined. One PhD student and an MD student finished
their theses on these topics in 2012. Prof. Dr. Roland Kreis
“Magnetic Resonance Techniques to Investigate Human Brain Physiology” [email protected]
is a second SNF grant that aims at the development of MR methods that are Studied chemistry at ETH Zurich, PhD with
tailored to the observation of brain metabolism, yet are also transferable to Richard Ernst. Postdoc and Boswell Fellow
other organs. In collaboration with the University of Zurich, exchange processes in USA at Caltech and HMRI (1989-1992).
between amide protons and water were first observed in human brain and At University of Bern since 1992; Habilitation
were then extended to skeletal muscle. One PhD student defended her thesis (2000), Titular Professor, later converted to
on this topic in 2012. Associate Professor (2006). Fellow of ISMRM
A third SNF project deals with the application of MRI and MRS to investi- (2011) and ESMRMB (2012).
gate native and transplanted kidneys. Transplanted kidneys were studied in the
donors and recipients using multiple MR techniques such as diffusion-weighted PD Dr. Peter Vermathen
and oxygen-dependent MRI. In collaborations with ARTORG groups, image [email protected]
post processing was developed to deal with motion-related problems of the Studied chemistry at University of Münster
MR acquisition. (DE); PhD in physical chemistry with Prof.
Since MR spectra in vivo have a limited spectral resolution, high-resolution Müller-Warmuth. Postdoc (1995-1996), DFG
magic angle spinning (HR-MAS) techniques are currently being developed in Fellow (1996-1998), Assistant Specialist at
order to correlate spectra of tissue in vivo and vitro. University of California, San Francisco (US)
A large multi-centre study on whiplash-patients was completed some years (1998-2000). At University of Bern since 1999,
ago and is now leading to a series of publications. One major paper reports the Habilitation (2008).
difficulty of four experienced readers to find objective MRI-signs within 48 hours
after a whiplash trauma.
In 2013, three PhD students will defend their theses and will be, or have
already been, replaced by a new generation of students, including one in a
co-authored European project starting in 2013. Our intervention studies with
exercise and diet require flexible booking of MR systems. Fortunately, the Insel-
spital has increased the number of MR systems such that the growing number
of studies, as well as increasing demands for training new PhD students, can
be accommodated.

52 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Group Members Hodler J, Ulbrich E, University Physiology: Acquisition and Post-
Prof. Dr. Chris Boesch, Hospital Zurich, Switzerland processing Tools to Advance Spec-
Head of Research Kollias S, University Hospital Zurich, troscopy at Clinical and High Mag-
Prof. Dr. Roland Kreis, Group Leader Switzerland netic Fields (R. Kreis) CHF 90,174
PD Dr. Peter Vermathen, Möller H, MPI for Human Cognitive –– SNF: Advanced multi-modal MR
Group Leader and Brain Sciences, Germany Imaging and Spectroscopy for Com-
Verena Beutler, Technician Moser E, Medical University, prehensive Characterization of Re-
Karin Zwygart-Brügger, Technician Vienna, Austria nal Function in Native and Trans-
Victor Adalid, PhD Student Prüssmann K, Kozerke S, ETH planted Kidneys (P. Vermathen)
(since Nov.) Zurich, Switzerland CHF 60,240
Christine Bolliger, PhD Student Scheurer E, Ludwig Boltzmann
Andreas Boss, PhD Student Institute, Austria Five Selected Publications
Vaclav Brandejsky, PhD Student Schick F, Machann J, University of Skeletal muscle (1)H MRSI before and
Tania Buehler, PhD Student Tübingen, Germany after prolonged exercise. II. visibility
(until Apr.) Stellingwerff T, Canadian Sport of free carnitine. Boss, A; Kreis, R;
Gaëlle Diserens, PhD Student Centre Pacific, Canada Saillen, P; Zehnder, M; Boesch, C;
(since Aug.) Strik W, Dierks T, University Hospital Vermathen, P (2012) in: Magn Reson
Sila Dokumaci, PhD Student of Psychiatry, Bern, Switzerland Med, 68(5), p. 1368-1375.
(since Mar.) Sturzenegger M, Inselspital, Restricted or severely hindered dif-
Erin MacMillan, PhD Student Switzerland fusion of intramyocellular lipids in hu-
(until June) Tappy L, Amati F, University of man skeletal muscle shown by in vivo
Maryam Seif, PhD Student Lausanne, Switzerland proton MR spectroscopy. Brandejsky, V;
(since Mar.) Zimmermann H, Inselspital, Kreis, R; Boesch, C (2012) in: Magn
Switzerland Reson Med, 67(2), p. 310-316.
Collaborators Zysset P, Reyes M, University of Bern, Magnetic resonance imaging based
Anderson S, University of Sydney, Switzerland determination of body compartments
Australia with the versatile, interactive sparse
Arslanian S, Lee SJ, Children’s Grants sampling (VISS) method. Buehler, T;
Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, USA Amounts allocated for 2012: Ramseier, N; Machann, J; Schwenzer,
Canet E, INSERM U1060, France –– SNF: Multi-nuclear magnetic reso- NF; Boesch, C (2012) in: J Magn Reson
Carlier P, Wary C, Pitié-Salpêtrière Imaging, 36(4), p. 951-960.
Hospital, France nance spectroscopy (MRS) and Effect of two beta-alanine dosing
Christ E, Stettler C, Diem P, imaging (MRI) on a clinical whole- protocols on muscle carnosine syn-
Inselspital, Switzerland body MR-system: insulin resistance, thesis and washout. Stellingwerff, T;
Derave W, Ghent University, Belgium ageing, and physical activity Anwander, H; Egger, A; Buehler, T;
Frey F, Eisenberger U, Inselspital, (C. Boesch) CHF 103,860 Kreis, R; Decombaz, J; Boesch, C (2012)
Switzerland –– SNF: Magnetic Resonance Tech- in: Amino Acids, 42(6), p. 2461-2472.
niques to Investigate Human Brain Skeletal muscle (1)H MRSI before
and after prolonged exercise. I. muscle
specific depletion of intramyocellular
lipids. Vermathen, P; Saillen, P; Boss, A;
Zehnder, M; Boesch, C (2012) in: Magn
Reson Med, 68(5), p. 1357-1367.

53 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Neurology

www.neuro-bern.ch

Research Highlights 2012 / Outlook 2013 Prof. Dr. Claudio. L. Bassetti
The Department of Neurology has a long-standing research tradition, and [email protected]
with the election of Prof. Bassetti as the new head of the department in 2012,
clinical and translational research were both strengthened. MD at University of Basel (1985); neurology
residency in Bern/Lausanne, FMH certification
Our groups focus on the following main research areas: (1992). Research fellowships in neurophysiology,
–– Bassetti Group – sleep and stroke in humans and animals Institute of Physiology, Basel and sleep medicine,
–– Kaelin Group – movement and motor disorders in humans and animals University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (US). Venia
–– Mattle Group – stroke and multiple sclerosis in humans docendi (1997). Professor, Vice-Chair of Neu-
–– Müri Group – cognitive neurology, neurorehabilitation, eye perception/ rology, University Hospital Zurich (2001-2009).
Director, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland
neuro-ophthalmology, gerontechnology and rehabilitation in humans (2009-2011). Since 2012, Full Professor of
Neurology, Chair, Department of Neurology,
Inselspital.

In 2012, a total of 12 SNF projects were running in our department and the
following research positions were financed: 500% MD, 1,200% PhD (two-thirds
in clinical and one-third in animal research), 800% study nurses, and 50% study
coordinator/biostatistician.

Current developmental efforts (2012-2013) include the creation of: Prof. Dr. Alain Kaelin
–– a new laboratory for animal research (Zentrum für experimentelle Neuro­ [email protected]

logie; ZEN) MD at University of Bern (1991); neurology
–– a platform for conducting clinical studies (Neuroklinisches Studienzentrum; residency in Bern, FMH certification (1997).
Fellowship in movement disorder and neurophys-
NKSZ) iological research at National Institute of Neuro-
–– a multidisciplinary, multicenter research group on the topic of epilepsy, logical Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, (US)
(1999-2001). Venia docendi (2004). Since 2008,
sleep and consciousness Senior Attending; Head, Movement Disorders
–– new positions for residents interested in research (50% clinical-50% research Center, Department of Neurology, Inselspital.
Associate Professor of Neurology (2012).
appointments)

Prof. Dr. Heinrich Mattle
[email protected]

MD at University of Zurich (1976); neurology
residency in Zurich, FMH certification (1985).
Fellowships in neuroradiology, Harvard University,
Boston (US) (1988-1990). Venia docendi (1990).
Since 1990, Vice-Chair and Head, Outpatient
Clinics, Department of Neurology, Inselspital.
Associate Professor of Neurology (1996).

54 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Prof. Dr. René Müri Prof. Dr. Werner Z’Graggen, Grants
[email protected] Senior Consultant Amounts allocated for 2012:
Dr. Oliver Findling, Consultant SNF-financed projects only
MD at University of Bern (1984); neurology PD Dr. Urs Fischer, Consultant –– Sleep apnea and stroke, human
residency in Bern and Basel, FMH certification Dr. Aikaterini Galimanis, Consultant
(1991). Postdoc at INSERM U 289, Hôpital de Dr. Simon Jung, Consultant (C. Bassetti) CHF 100,000
la Salpêtrière, Paris (FR) (1993-1995). Venia Dr. Christian Kamm, Consultant –– Restless leg and cardiovascular risk,
Docendi (1997). Since 2004, Senior Attending; Dr. Marie-Louise Mono, Consultant
Head, Unit of Cognitive and Restorative Neu- human/animal (M. Manconi,
rology, Department of Neurology, Inselspital. Prof. Dr. René Müri, Group Leader C. Bassetti) CHF 50,000
Associate Professor of Neurology (2008). PD Dr. Klemens Gutbrod, –– Fatigue in autommune diseases, ani-
Senior Researcher mal (A. Fontana, H. Gast) CHF 50,000
Group Members Dr. Manuel Bertschi, –– Imaging large scale neuronal
Prof. Dr. Claudio L. Bassetti, Postdoctoral Fellow networks in epilepsy, human
Chair, Group Leader Tobia Brusa, Dipl. Ing. (M. Seeck, K. Schindler) CHF 115,000
Prof. Dr. Johannes Mathis, Diego De Leon Rodriguez, –– PFO Konsortium, human (M. Mono)
Senior Consultant PhD Student CHF 17,000
Dr. Heidemarie Gast, Consultant Noëmi Eggenberger, PhD Student –– Cerebral perfusion, vasospasm,
PD Dr. Arto Nirko, Consultant Susanna Hopfner, PhD Student subarachnoid hemorrhage, human
PD Dr. Kaspar Schindler, Consultant Matthias Lüthy, PhD Student (J. Beck, W. Z’Graggen) CHF 120,000
Dr. Corinne Roth, Research Associate Basil Preisig, PhD Student –– Aphasia and co-speech gestures,
Dr. Thomas Horvath, Research Assistant Rahel Schumacher, PhD Student human (R. Müri) CHF 146,000
Dr. Sarah Schroth, Research Assistant Tim Vanbellingen, PhD Student –– Bilingualism, human (J.-M. Annoni,
Dr. Francesca Baracchi, R. Müri) CHF 100,000
Postdoctoral Fellow Selected Collaborators –– Motion and spatial neglect, human
Dr. Ertugrul Cam, Postdoctoral Fellow Annoni J-M, University of Fribourg, (T. Nyffeler, R. Müri) CHF 108,000
Dr. Bo Gao, Postdoctoral Fellow Switzerland –– Neural basis of praxis production,
Dr. Svitlana Palchykova, Baumann C, Luft A, University human (S. Bohlhalter, R. Müri)
Postdoctoral Fellow Hospital Zurich, Switzerland CHF 110,000
Dr. Frédéric Zubler, Postdoctoral Fellow Bloch J, CHUV Lausanne, Switzerland –– Enhancement of sensory processing
Aleksandra Hodor, PhD Student Bousser MG, Chabriat H, CHU by attention, human (R. Ptak,
Maria Pace, PhD Student Lariboisière, France R. Müri) CHF 110,000
Henke K, University of Bern, –– Etiology, diagnosis, treatment of cer-
Prof. Dr. Alain Kaelin, Group Leader Switzerland vicocerebral artery dissections, human
Prof. Dr. Kai Rösler, Senior Consultant Manconi M, Fulda S, Möller C, (M. Arnold) CHF 650,000 (special
Prof. Dr. Matthias Sturzenegger, Cereda C, Gobbi C, Galati S, programme university medicine)
Senior Consultant Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland
Dr. Niklaus Meier, Consultant Mormannn F, University Clinic of Five Selected Publications
Dr. Michael Schüpbach, Consultant Epileptology Bonn, Germany Theta burst stimulation reduces disa-
Prof. Dr. Jean-Marc Burgunder, Mosimann UP, Nef T, University of bility during the activities of daily
External Consultant Bern, Switzerland living in spatial neglect. Cazzoli, D et
Dr. Christine Capper-Loup, Nedeltchev K, Remonda L, al. (2012) in: Brain, 135, p. 3426-3439.
Postdoctoral Fellow Khatami R, Cantonal Hospital Aarau, Sleep deprivation prior to stroke
Susanne Sgroi, PhD Student Switzerland increases sleep rebound and attenuat-
Nobili L, Niguarda Hospital ed brain lesions in the rat. Cam, E et
Prof. Dr. Heinrich Mattle, Ca’ Granda, Italy al. in: Exp Neurol (in press).
Vice-Chair, Group Leader Nyffeler T, Bohlhalter S, Lucerne On seeing the trees and the forest:
Prof. Dr. Marcel Arnold, Senior Cantonal Hospital, Switzerland single-signal and multisignal analysis of
Consultant Ptak R, University of Geneva, periictal intracranial EEG. Schindler, K et
Switzerland al. (2012) in: Epilepsia, 53, p. 1658-1668.
Raabe A, Beck J, Pollo C, Inselspital, Adverse effect of early epileptic sei-
Switzerland zures in patients receiving endovascular
Schroth G, Gralla J, Wiest R, therapy for acute stroke. Jung, S et al.
Inselspital, Switzerland (2012) in: Stroke, 43, p. 1584-1590.
Thaler D, Kent D, Tufts Medical Adaptive gene expression changes
Center, USA on the healthy side of parkinsonian
rats. Capper-Loup, C et al. in: Neuro-
science 2012 (in press).

55 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Perception and Eye Movement

www.eyelab.dkf.unibe.ch

Research Highlights 2012 / Outlook 2013 Prof. Dr. Claudio L. Bassetti
In 2012, we obtained a new SNF grant (PhD student: S. Hopfner) for a project [email protected]
that aims to study the conditions under which motion may modulate visual
hemineglect. Motion is omnipresent in daily live, and from clinical observations MD at University of Basel (1985); neurology
we know that moving objects may improve or deteriorate neglect. One goal is residency in Bern/Lausanne, FMH certification
to find out the characteristics of the patients who improve by motion stimuli. (1992). Research fellowships in neurophysio­
We hope this will be a new approach for the rehabilitation of neglect. logy, Institute of Physiology, Basel and sleep
We have an SNF project (PhD student: D. de León Rodríguez) concerning medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
bilingualism and reading strategies in collaboration with the University of Fribourg. (US). Venia docendi (1997). Professor, Vice-
It investigates linguistic and individual factors in bilingual language processing, Chair of Neurology, University Hospital Zurich
since reading strategies are dependent not only on reading proficiency but also (2001-2009). Director, Neurocenter of South-
on language characteristics. We especially aim to test whether there are differ- ern Switzerland (2009-2011). Since 2012,
ent patterns of reading between the first (L1) and second (L2) languages. Full Professor of Neurology, Chair, Department
Specifically, we will test equally proficient, as well as low proficient, bilingual of Neurology, Inselspital.
subjects mastering an opaque language (like French or English) and a transpar-
ent one (like German and Italian). PD Dr. Stephan Bohlhalter
The SNF project (PhD students: N. Eggenberger, B. Preisig) concerning apha- [email protected]
sia and co-speech gestures started well. One goal of the project is to study the
close interaction between language and co-speech gestures in healthy subjects MD at University of Zurich (1994). Chief, Divi-
and patients with aphasia, with special focus on the perception of co-speech sion for Restorative and Behavioral Neurology,
gestures. It is not clear whether aphasic patients are able to use such additional Lucerne Cantonal Hospital; PD in neurology
non-verbal information. To this end, we perform complex behavioural analysis at University of Bern. President, Swiss Parkinson
by coding speech and gestures in time during conversations between two peo- Association Research Committee and Advisory
ple (facing page, left image). In addition, we analyse fixation behaviour (facing Panel.
page, right image: circles represent fixations; the diameter indicates fixation du-
ration). For 2013, we plan to extend this project by studying cultural influences
on the perception of co-speech gestures (financed by a CCLM grant). In this
project, we will examine the influence of different L1 on gesture production and
gesture perception.

Prof. Dr. René Müri
[email protected]

MD at University of Bern (1984); neurology
residency in Bern and Basel, FMH certification
(1991). Postdoc at INSERM U 289, Hôpital de
la Salpêtrière, Paris (FR) (1993-1995). Venia
Docendi (1997). Since 2004, Senior Attending;
Head, Unit of Cognitive and Restorative Neu-
rology, Department of Neurology, Inselspital.
Associate Professor of Neurology (2008).

56 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

PD Dr. Thomas Nyffeler Collaborators Five Selected Publications
t h o ma s .ny f fe l e r @ d k f.uni b e.ch Annoni J-M, University of Fribourg, Theta burst stimulation reduces disa-
Switzerland bility during the activities of daily living
MD at University of Bern (1995); neurology res- Mosimann UP, University of Bern, in spatial neglect. Cazzoli, D; Muri, RM;
idency in Geneva, Zurich, Bern, and Paris (FR). Switzerland Schumacher, R; von, AS; Chaves, S;
PD at University of Bern (2009). Joined Percep- Nef T, University of Bern, Switzerland Gutbrod, K; Bohlhalter, S; Bauer, D;
tion and Eye Movement Laboratory in 2002. Ptak R, University of Geneva, Vanbellingen, T; Bertschi, M; Kipfer, S;
Senior Consultant, Division for Cognitive and Switzerland Rosenthal, CR; Kennard, C; Bassetti, CL;
Restorative Neurology, Inselspital (2007). Since Nyffeler, T (2012) in: Brain, 135(Pt 11),
summer 2012, Co-Chief, Division for Restora- Grants p. 3426-3439.
tive and Behavioral Neurology, Lucerne Can- Amounts allocated for 2012: Theta burst stimulation over the
tonal Hospital. –– SNF: Neural basis of praxis produc- right Broca’s homologue induces
improvement of naming in aphasic
Group Members tion – From higher-order processing patients. Kindler, J; Schumacher, R;
Prof. Dr. Claudio L. Bassetti, Chair, to fine motor control (S. Bohlhalter) Cazzoli, D; Gutbrod, K; Koenig, M;
Group Leader CHF 110,000 Nyffeler, T; Dierks, T; Muri, RM (2012)
PD Dr. Stephan Bohlhalter, –– SNF: Aphasia and co-speech ges- in: Stroke, 43(8), p. 2175-2179.
Group Leader tures (R. Müri) CHF 146,000 Dancing eyes and uvula after brain
Prof. Dr. René Müri, Group Leader –– SNF: Bilingualism (J.-M. Annoni) tumour extirpation—a sign of tumour
PD Dr. Thomas Nyffeler, CHF 100,000 progression? Kipfer, S; Pirovino, C;
Group Leader –– SNF: Motion and spatial neglect El-Koussy, M; Nyffeler, T; Lukes, A;
Dr. Manuel Bertschi, Postdoctoral (T. Nyffeler) CHF 108,000 Muri, RM (2012) in: Lancet,
Fellow –– SNF: Enhancement of sensory 379(9830), p. 1983.
Tobia Brusa, Dipl. Ing. processing by attention: cognitive, Unmasking the contribution of
Diego de León Rodríguez, electrophysiological, and neuro­ low-level features to the guidance of
PhD Student psychological studies (R. Ptak) attention. Ossandon, JP; Onat, S;
Noëmi Eggenberger, PhD Student CHF 110,000 Cazzoli, D; Nyffeler, T; Muri, R; Konig, P
Simone Hopfner, PhD Student –– Ernst Göhner Foundation: Transcra- (2012) in: Neuropsychologia, 50(14),
Mathias Lüthi, PhD Student nial Magnetic Stimulation in Neuro­ p. 3478-3487.
Basil Preisig, PhD Student (since June) rehabilitation (R. Müri) CHF 80,000 Impaired pantomime in schizo-
Rahel Schumacher, PhD Student –– Center for Cognition, Learning, and phrenia: Association with frontal lobe
Tim Vanbellingen, PhD Student Memory, University of Bern: Gesture function. Walther, S; Vanbellingen, T;
and Culture – transcultural differenc- Muri, R; Strik, W; Bohlhalter, S (2012)
es in co-speech gesture perception in: Cortex.
(R. Müri) CHF 50,000

57 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Prenatal Medicine

www.dkf.unibe.ch/research-group/19/prenatal-medicine/

Research Highlights 2012 / Outlook 2013 Prof. Dr. Daniel Surbek
Our research focuses on two major translational research fields: [email protected]

Stem Cell Research MD at University of Basel (1988). Specialist
Premature birth is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Cerebral in obstetrics and gynaecology (1996). Visiting
palsy with its severe, lifelong disability typically arises from oligodendrocyte scientist in USA at Johns Hopkins University
damage leading to periventricular leukomalacia. Our major research focus is on Baltimore and Children’s Hospital Philadelphia
the development of stem cell transplantation strategies for neuroregeneration (1996). Research fellow at Kings College Hos­
in peripartum brain damage due to hypoxia or preterm birth. We assessed the pital London (UK) (2000). Sub-specialist in
developmental plasticity of umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem maternal-foetal medicine (2000). Habilitation
cells (MSC), and were recently able to show that differentiation of these cells at University of Basel (2002). Since 2005,
into neural cell lines, including oligodendrocyte precursors is feasible. This Co-Chair and Full Professor of Obstetrics and
property, together with their immunomodulatory effects, makes these cells the Gynaecology, Head of Obstetrics and Foeto-Ma-
ideal candidate for stem cell grafts in peripartum brain damage. To determine ternal Medicine, Inselspital.
the effect and the mechanism of stem cell-mediated neuroregeneration, we
use a rat model of peripartum brain damage. Subcutaneous administration of Dr. Andreina Schoeberlein
E. coli-derived lipopolysaccharides followed by left carotid artery defined hy- [email protected]
poxia (8% O2, 40 min) was performed on early postnatal rats. Different thera-
peutic approaches were chosen, including MSC transplantation with or without MS in agriculture (1990), PhD in animal genom-
neurotrophic growth factors. In brain sections, the induced damage and the ics (1993) at ETH Zurich. Postdocs at University
transplant are identified and evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Functional of Liège (BE) (Veterinary Medicine, Genetics,
outcome was evaluated by different tests such as footprint and walking pattern 1994-1996) and University Hospital Zurich
test. Donor cells were detected in the brain post transplantation. Morphologic (Cardiovascular Surgery, 1996-2001). Research
assessment of the induced brain damage indicated periventricular leukomala- scientist at Laboratories for Prenatal Medicine,
cia. Administration of stem cells alone and in combination with erythropoietin University Hospital Basel (2001-2005) and
reduced the extent of the damage. Functional tests indicate a significant reduc- Inselspital (2005-2009). Since 2009, Co-Head,
tion of spastic paresis. Laboratory for Prenatal Medicine, DCR; Group
Leader Stem Cell Research.
Preeclampsia Research
This research project is part of the large NCCR TransCure in Bern (PI: Prof.
Matthias Hediger). Foetal programming in preeclampsia leads to cardiovascular
and metabolic diseases in offsprings later in life. This phenomenon and its pre-
vention is a major focus of our project. We aim to determine the role of specific
transmembrane transporters (Glut1/3, Glut9, OAT4, TRPV6, SVCT2 and DMT1)
in the placenta and in the pathway of preeclampsia. In particular, we make use
of vesicle and transwell experiments, in vitro placental perfusion experiments
and transgenic mouse models to validate target transporters. In further ex­
periments in collaboration with chemists and structural biologists, we are test-
ing potential compounds and their effects on preeclampsia pathogenesis and
foetal programming.

Dr. Marc Baumann
[email protected]

MD at Universities of Geneva and Bern (1996);
Research Fellow Perinatal Biology Group, Uni-
versity of Medicine and Dentistry, New Jersey
(US) (2000-2002). Specialist in obstetrics and
gynaeco­logy, Inselspital (2010). Currently,
Registrar of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Insel-
spital and Co-PI NCCR TransCure.

58 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Group Members Hediger M, Albrecht C, University Five Selected Publications
Prof. Dr. Daniel Surbek, Co-Chair, of Bern, Switzerland 17beta-Estradiol Protects 7-Day Old
Head of Research Leib S, University of Bern, Switzerland Rats From Acute Brain Injury and
Dr. Andreina Schoeberlein, Mohaupt M, University of Bern, Reduces the Number of Apoptotic
Co-Head of Research, Group Leader Switzerland Cells. Mueller, MM; Middelanis, J;
Dr. Marc Baumann, Group Leader, NCCR TransCure, Research groups, Meier, C; Surbek, D; Berger, R (2012)
Registrar Universities of Bern and in: Reprod Sci. (Aug 8 e-pub ahead
Dr. Martin Müller, Research Lausanne, ETH Zurich, Switzerland of print)
Associate, Registrar Paidas M, Yale University, USA Homing of placenta-derived mes-
PD Dr. Luigi Raio, Research Parolini O, University of Brescia, Italy enchymal stem cells after perinatal
Associate, Consultant Platform for Stem Cell Research intracerebral transplantation in a rat
Prof. Dr. Henning Schneider, and Regenerative Medicine, model. Schoeberlein, A; Mueller, M;
Research Associate (retired) University of Bern and VetSuisse, Reinhart, U; Sager, R; Messerli, M;
Dr. Arjun Jain, Postdoctoral Fellow Switzerland Surbek, DV (2011) in: Am J Obstet Gy-
(since Oct.) Villiger P, Förger F, University of necol, 205(3), p. 277 e1-6.
Dr. Benjamin Lüscher, Postdoctoral Bern, Switzerland Stress and pain response of neo-
Fellow (since Apr.) Widmer HR, University of Bern, nates after spontaneous birth and
Dr. Marianne Messerli, Postdoctoral Switzerland vacuum-assisted and cesarean delivery.
Fellow Schuller, C; Kanel, N; Muller, O; Kind,
Judith Herbst, Research Midwife Grants AB; Tinner, EM; Hosli, I; Zimmermann,
Ursula Reinhard, Laboratory Amounts allocated for 2012: R; Surbek, D (2012) in: Am J Obstet
Technician –– SNF: NCCR TransCure (D. Surbek, Gynecol, 207(5), 416 e1-6.
Ruth Sager, Laboratory Technician High acceptance rate of hybrid
Camilla Marini, PhD Student M. Baumann) CHF 204,000 allogeneic-autologous umbilical cord
(since July) –– SNF: Systemic vascular function blood banking among actual and
Ramesh Perjasamy, PhD Student potential Swiss donors. Wagner, AM;
Soleen Ghafoor, MD Student in offsprings of preeclampsia Krenger, W; Suter, E; Ben, HD; Surbek,
(since Oct.) (Y. Allemann, L. Raio) CHF 120,000 DV (2012) in: Transfusion (Oct 15
–– C ryo-Save: Umbilical cord stem cells ahead of print).
Collaborators for neuroregeneration (D. Surbek, Stem cells from umbilical cord
Allemann Y, University of Bern, M. Messerli) CHF 50,000 Wharton’s jelly from preterm birth have
Switzerland –– E agle Foundation: Perinatal stem neuroglial differentiation potential.
Enzmann V, University of Bern, cell transplantation for brain injury Messerli, M; Wagner, A; Sager, R;
Switzerland (D. Surbek, A. Schoeberlein) Mueller, M; Baumann, M; Surbek, DV;
Grandgirard D, University of Bern, CHF 100,000 Schoeberlein, A. in: Reprod Sci 2012
Switzerland –– Ruth & Arthur Scherbarth Stiftung: (in press)
Perinatal stem cell transplantation
(A. Schoeberlein) CHF 20,000

59 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Thoracic Surgery

www.dkf.unibe.ch/research-group/50/thoracic-surgery/

Research Highlights 2012 / Outlook 2013 Prof. Dr. Ralph A. Schmid
Frese Group [email protected]
We are interested in how lung cancer cells can be sensitised for receptor-medi-
ated apoptosis. We found different pathways for sensitisation and are currently MD at University of Zurich; Residency, Division
working on elucidating mechanisms. We are also investigating how immune of Surgery (1988-1994). Fellowship at Depart-
cells and cytokines of the tumour necrosis factor family influence the growth of ment of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery,
chemically induced lung cancer. By coincidence, we recently discovered that Washington University Medical School, St. Louis
the topoisomerase I inhibitor irinotecan (known for its use in chemotherapy of (US) (1994-1995). Staff Surgeon, Division of
metastatic cancer) is able to efficiently suppress the autoimmune disease system- Surgery, University Hospital Zurich (1996-1999).
ic lupus erythematosus in mice. Further studies revealed that doses necessary Since 1999, Professor of Surgery, Chair, Depart-
for the suppression are much lower than doses used for chemotherapy. These ment of Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital.
observations led to the planning of a pilot study in collaboration with the De-
partments of Nephrology and Hypertension, and Medical Oncology (Inselspital),
using low-dose irinotecan in patients with active lupus nephritis refractory to
conventional treatment. If financial support can be secured, initiation of the
study is planned for the beginning of 2013.

Marti and Peng Group PD Dr. Steffen Frese
We investigate endogenous lung stem cells in health and disease. In healthy [email protected]
lung, we have identified resident lung stromal stem cells, which can potentially
be used as a therapeutic cell source for end-stage lung disease such as emphy- MD at Friedrich-Schiller University of Jena (DE).
sema. In collaboration with the Theodor Kocher Institute (University of Bern), Scholarship from Max-Planck Society. Since
we will extend this project to elucidate the role of stem cells in resolving or pro- 2000, at DCR, University of Bern and Depart-
moting lung repair. In diseased lung, e.g., lung adenocarcinoma and pleural ment of Thoracic Surgery, Inselspital; Staff
mesothelioma, we identified cancer stem cells and showed that lung cancer stem Surgeon from 2007. Rotations to hospitals in
cells are resistant to conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Paradoxically, a Solothurn and Interlaken (2002-2006) while
common feature of cancer stem cells is the dysregulation of the DNA damage DCR Group Leader. DKF Research Prize (2003).
response pathway, which orchestrates DNA damage repair/tolerance, cell cycle Swiss Board Certification in General Surgery
progression and DNA replication. We are currently evaluating DNA damage (2007); Venia docendi (2011).
levels and the status of the DNA damage response machinery in putative lung
cancer stem cells. Our aim is to target these cells based on their specific altera-
tions of the DNA damage response pathway. In addition, we investigate the
dysfunction of the endocytic trafficking machinery, which is linked to asym-
metric cell division, a known feature of cancer stem cells.

Dr. Thomas M. Marti
[email protected]

PhD in biology at University of Bern. Postdoc
at UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center (US)
(2003-2006). Principal investigator at Laborato-
ry of Molecular Oncology, University Hospital
Zurich (2006-2012). Since 2012, Group Leader,
Department of Thoracic Surgery, DCR.

60 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Dr. Renwang Peng
[email protected]

PhD in biochemistry at Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing (CN). Scholarship from Max
Planck Society (DE) and visiting scholar at
Dartmouth Medical School (US). Group Leader
at ETH Zurich (2006-2010). Since 2012, Group
Leader, Department of Thoracic Surgery, DCR.

Group Members Grants Long term survival after trimodal
Prof. Dr. Ralph A. Schmid, Chair Amounts allocated for 2012: therapy in malignant pleural meso-
PD Dr. Steffen Frese, Group Leader –– SNF: Inhibition of topoisomerase I: thelioma. Fahrner, R; Ochsenbein, A;
Dr. Thomas M. Marti, Group Leader Schmid, RA; Carboni, GL (2012) in:
Dr. Renwang Peng, Group Leader a new strategy for the treatment Swiss Med Wkly, 142, p. w13686.
Dr. Manuela Frese-Schaper, of systemic lupus erythematosus Diffuse descending necrotizing
Postdoctoral Fellow (S. Frese) CHF 104,265 mediastinitis: surgical therapy and
Laurent Fromment, Laboratory –– Albert Böni Foundation: Inhibition outcome in a single-centre series.
Technician of topoisomerase I: a new strategy Kocher, GJ; Hoksch, B; Caversaccio, M;
Selina Steiner, Laboratory Technician for the treatment of systemic Wiegand, J; Schmid, RA (2012) in: Eur
Dr. med. Gregor Kocher, lupus erythematosus (S. Frese), J Cardiothorac Surg, 42(4), p. e66-e72.
Clinical Fellow CHF 13,300 1,25-Dihydroxycholecalciferol
Andreas Keil, PhD Student –– Bernese Foundation for Clinical and with low-calcium diet reduces acute
(since Aug.) Experimental Cancer Research: rejection in rat lung allotransplantation.
Zelluläre Mechanismen der Sensiti- Kubisa, B; Stammberger, U; Gugger,
Collaborators vierung von Lungenkrebszellen M; Uduehi, AN; Grodzki, T; Schmid,
Benarafa C, University of Bern, für Rezeptor (TRAIL) vermittelten RA (2012) in: Eur J Cardiothorac Surg,
Switzerland programmierten Zelltod (S. Frese) 42(5), p. 871-877.
Galetta D, European Institute CHF 104,742 Weight gain after lung reduction
of Oncology, Italy surgery is related to improved lung
Guenat O, University of Bern, Five Selected Publications function and ventilatory efficiency.
Switzerland High expression of octamer-binding Kim, V; Kretschman, DM; Sternberg,
Gugger M, University of Bern, transcription factor 4A, prominin-1 AL; DeCamp, MM, Jr.; Criner, GJ
Switzerland and aldehyde dehydrogenase strongly (2012) in: Am J Respir Crit Care Med,
Hideo Y, Juntendo University School indicates involvement in the initiation 186(11), p. 1109-1116.
of Medicine, Japan of lung adenocarcinoma resulting
Huynh-Do U, Inselspital, Switzerland in shorter disease-free intervals.
Diamond B, Feinstein Institute for Cortes-Dericks, L; Galetta, D; Spaggiari,
Medical Research, USA L; Schmid, RA; Karoubi, G (2012) in:
Ochsenbein A, Inselspital, Switzerland Eur J Cardiothorac Surg, 41(6),
p. e173-e181.

61 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Urology

www.dkf.unibe.ch/research-group/26/urology

Research Highlights 2012 / Outlook 2013 Prof. Dr. George N. Thalmann
The highlights of our research in 2012 concern our projects on: [email protected]
MD (1984), trained in surgery and urology.
Metastatic Disease in Prostate Cancer (PCa) Postdoc in USA at MD Anderson Cancer Center
We demonstrated that growth of human PCa can be driven by multiple, stem- (1994-1996). Urology Consultant (1996), Fellow
like progenitor cells with a differentiated phenotype rather than by a single, of European Board of Urology (1997), Habili­
stem-like cell with undifferentiated phenotype. We identified aldehyde dehydro- tation (2000). Senior Physician (1996-2000),
genase 1A1 (ALDH1A1) and NANOG as markers of these stem-like cells, which Senior Attending and Deputy Physician-in-Chief
may be potentially useful as prognostic markers in PCa patients. (2000-2005), Physician-in-Chief “ad personam”
A circulating tumour cell (CTC)-capture microfluidic chip was developed and (2005-2010). Since 2010, Chair, Department
validated. This device allows immunoaffinity-capture and subsequent direct in of Urology, Inselspital.
situ culture of CTCs in a 3D biomimetic hydrogel matrix for assaying their clonal,
spheroid growth potential. Dr. Marco G. Cecchini
We defined the whole transcriptome associated with the stromal reaction in [email protected]
mouse models of either osteoblastic or osteolytic bone metastases. We also MD (1979); physician in internal medicine/endo-
identified a family of proteins, induced in the stroma of osteolytic bone metas- crinology at Padua University (IT) (1979-1982).
tasis, with an unprecedented activity in stimulating osteoclast generation and Postdoc at Wander Research Institute, Bern
consequent bone resorption. (1982-1983). Research Associate at Institute of
For 2013, we plan to investigate the value of ALDH1A1 and NANOG as Pathophysiology, University of Bern (1984-1993,
prognostic markers in a large cohort of PCa tissue samples. Within the frame 1994-1997). Associate Professor at Beth Israel
of the “Global Prostate Cancer Biomarker Initiative”, recently initiated by the Hospital, Boston (US) (1993-1994). Head, Gene
Movember Foundation, expression of a stem cell marker set in CTCs from Therapy Laboratory, DCR (1997-2001). Since
blood samples of early PCa patients will be validated as a method to stratify 2002, Head, Urology Research Laboratory, DCR.
patients as “indolent” or “aggressive” PCa. The bioinformatics analysis of
differentially regulated genes in the stroma of osteoblastic and osteolytic bone PD Dr. Katia Monastyrskaya
metastases will be further refined, and the functional role of highly regulated, [email protected]
novel genes from these lists will be investigated. BSc and MSc in molecular biology, Moscow
State University (RU). DPhil in Biochemistry,
Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS) Wadham College, University of Oxford (UK).
BPS is a painful and debilitating condition characterised by urgency, frequency Postdoc at NERC Institute of Virology, Oxford
and incomplete emptying. Its aetiology is not yet known, but impairment of the (UK). Senior Scientist at Hoffmann-La Roche/
mucinous layer and epithelial damage has often been invoked. Givaudan, Switzerland. Since 2001, Senior
In earlier studies, we demonstrated that BPS is accompanied by a significant Research Associate, Habilitation (2007) at
alteration of the mRNA and protein levels of several signalling and structural University of Bern. Since 2011, Group Leader,
proteins involved in pain perception, regulation of urothelial integrity and neu- Urology Research Laboratory, DCR.
rogenic inflammation.
Our group was the first to implicate miRNAs in bladder remodelling during
lower urinary tract diseases. Last year, we started a comparative investigation of
mRNAs and miRNAs altered in BPS and overactive and acontractile bladders,
addressing the role of differentially expressed miRNAs in the regulation of genes
important for bladder function. Our experimental approach combines analysis
of human biopsy material with in vitro models. The clinical part of this project
is in collaboration with Fiona Burkhard (Department of Urology).
We validated some of the differentially expressed miRNAs as regulators of
tachykinin receptors. Using cell-based models, we have recently established the
role of miR-199a-5p in the regulation of urothelial permeability.
For 2013, we plan to characterise additional disease-induced miRNAs, validate
their target genes and silence their expression levels.

62 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Research Groups from the Inselspital

Group Members Grants Five Selected Publications
Prof. Dr. George N. Thalmann, Amounts allocated for 2012: Diagnostic microchip to assay 3D
Chair, Group Leader –– SNF: The role of microRNAs in organ colony-growth potential of captured
Dr. Marco G. Cecchini, Head of circulating tumor cells. Bichsel, CA;
Laboratory, Group Leader remodelling in lower urinary tract Gobaa, S; Kobel, S; Secondini, C;
PD Dr. Katia Monastyrskaya, dysfunction (K. Monastyrskaya) Thalmann, GN; Cecchini, MG; Lutolf,
Group Leader CHF 120,960 MP (2012) in: Lab Chip, 12(13),
Ursula Gerber, Laboratory Technician –– SNF: Detection and targeting of p. 2313-2316.
Irena Klima, Laboratory Technician lymph node metastases in prostate Increased expression of putative
Ali Hashemi Gheinani, PhD Student cancer (G. Thalmann) CHF 105,000 cancer stem cell markers in primary
Janine Hensel, PhD Student –– European Commission: Prostate prostate cancer is associated with
Research Organizations-Network progression of bone metastases.
Collaborators of Early Stage Training (Pro-Nest) Colombel, M; Eaton, CL; Hamdy, F;
Bubendorf L, University Hospital (G. Thalmann) EUR 80,000 Ricci, E; van der Pluijm, G; Cecchini, M;
Basel, Switzerland –– Amgen Switzerland: Dual targeting Mege-Lechevallier, F; Clezardin, P;
Draeger A, University of Bern, of the BMP antagonist noggin Thalmann, G (2012) in: Prostate,
Switzerland and RANK/RANKL axis in osteolytic 72(7), p. 713-720.
Grewal T, University of Sydney, bone metastasis by solid cancers Stem-like cells with luminal progen-
Australia (M. Cecchini) CHF 23,000 itor phenotype survive castration in
Kellenberger S, University of –– Bernese Cancer League: Electro- human prostate cancer. Germann, M;
Lausanne, Switzerland physiological assessment of the Wetterwald, A; Guzman-Ramirez, N;
Lutolf MP, EPF Lausanne, Switzerland male canine pelvic autonomic van der Pluijm, G; Culig, Z; Cecchini,
Mills I, University of Oslo, Norway neural anatomy and translation to MG; Williams, ED; Thalmann, GN (2012)
Sanchez-Freire V, Stanford the perioperative human setting in: Stem Cells, 30(6), p. 1076-1086.
University, USA in the context of nerve-sparing Annexin A6 is a scaffold for PKCal-
Temanni M-R, University of radical cystectomy (P. Zehnder) pha to promote EGFR inactivation.
Maryland, USA CHF 40,000 Koese, M; Rentero, C; Kota, BP; Hoque,
Van der Plujm G, Leiden University –– Bernese Cancer League: Molecular M; Cairns, R; Wood, P; Vila de, MS;
Medical Centre, The Netherlands profiling of treatment naïve primary Reverter, M; Alvarez-Guaita, A;
Williams ED, Monash University, urothelial bladder cancers and Monastyrskaya, K; Hughes, WE;
Australia correlation with response to neoad- Swarbrick, A; Tebar, F; Daly, RJ; Enrich,
juvant chemotherapy (R. Seiler) C; Grewal, T (2012) in: Oncogene.
CHF 50,000 miR-199a-5p Regulates Urothelial
Permeability and May Play a Role in
Bladder Pain Syndrome. Monastyrskaya,
K; Sanchez-Freire, V; Gheinani, AH;
Klumpp, DJ; Babiychuk, EB; Draeger, A;
Burkhard, FC (2012) in: Am J Pathol.

63 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012



Key Events

Key Events

Welcome Event 2012 DKF Research Conferences 2012 2 July – Prof. Dr. Benjamin Podbilewicz
30 May Technion – Israel Institute of Technology,
With an average of 60 visitors each month, Haifa, Israel
Around 60 interested DCR newcomers the DKF Research Conferences continue Mechanisms of neuronal tree generation
attended this event, which in the future to be very successful. In 2012, we were and regeneration following nano-surgery.
will take place yearly. The Welcome Event pleased to present the following speakers:
for 2013 will be held 29 May (4-6 pm). 3 Sep. – Prof. Dr. Tim Arnett
6 Feb. – Prof. Dr. Yoshihiro Fujimura University College London, UK
Day of Clinical Research 2012 Nara Medical University, Kashihara City, Japan Bone cell regulation – don’t forget the
13-14 Nov. 2012 ADAMTS13: Clinical relevance in chronic fundamentals.
liver disease and novel insights into the
A large and interested audience followed localization in the brain. 1 Oct. – Prof. Dr. Tea Lanišnik Rižner
the presentations of Prof. Dr. Ada Yonath University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
(Structural Biology Department, Weizmann 5 Mar. – Prof. Dr. Vincent Mooser Progesterone in proliferative diseases:
Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel) en­titled CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland a friend or a foe?
“Can structures lead to better antibiotics?” Genetics in pharmaceutical sciences:
and Prof. Dr. William Pralong (Life Human as the next animal model. 5. Nov. – Prof. Dr. David R. Goodlett
Sciences and Technologies Teaching Sec- University of Washington, Seattle, USA
tion, EPF Lausanne) entitled “Can the ETH 2 Apr. – Prof. Dr. Marguerite The conundrum of proteomic technology
domain take an active role in the training Neerman-Arbez development: approaches to a 24 hour
of physician scientists?” University of Geneva, Switzerland proteome for clinical investigations.
Six candidates applied for the Research Modelling fibrinogen deficiency in the
Prize 2012 (funded by the DCR and the zebra fish. 3. Dec. – Prof. Dr. Rudi GJ Westendorp
Johanna Dürmüller-Bol Foundation) and Leiden University Medical Centre and
170 abstracts were submitted for DKF Poster 7 May – Prof. Dr. Joseph D. Brain Leyden Academy on Vitality and Ageing,
Prizes and the Alumni MedBern Prize. The Harvard School of Public Health, Leiden, The Netherlands
winners were (left to right in photo below): Boston, USA Control of human lifespan.
Alumni MedBern Prize – Janine Ruppen When are metals essential nutrients?
(ARTORG Center); best patient-oriented When therapeutic? When toxic? In 2013, DKF Research Conferences will
project – Dr. Spyridon Arampatzis (De- take place as usual every first Monday
partment of Nephrology and Hypertension 4 June – Dr. Dusko Ilic of the month from 5-6 pm, followed by
and Department of Emergency Medicine, King’s College London, UK an apéro.
Inselspital); Research Prize – Dr. Henriette Human embryonic stem cell research
Brinks (Department of Cardiovascular – where are we now?
Surgery, Inselspital and Cardiovascular Sur-
gery, DCR); best laboratory-oriented
project – Christopher Jackson (Human
Genetics, DCR); best project by a medical
student – Anna Lena Fuchs (Department
of Neurosurgery, Inselspital).
The next Day of Clinical Research will
be held 5-6 November 2013.

65 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

Personnel Update

Personnel Update

Academic Degrees PD Dr. Malte Book Polychronis Dimitrakis
Anaesthesiology (Dr. Christian Zuppinger)
The following academic degrees where Potential cardiotoxicity of targeted
awarded to DCR group members: PD Dr. Florian Michael Dick cancer therapy
Cardiovascular Surgery
Full Professor Elena Alessandra Federzoni
PD Dr. Siamak Djafarzadeh (PD Dr. Mario P. Tschan)
Prof. Dr. Claudio L. Bassetti Intensive Medicine Novel transcriptional targets of PU.1
Neurology, and Perception and involved in myeloid differentiation and
Eye Movement PD Dr. Philipp Latzin cell survival
Pulmonary Medicine (Paediatrics)
Prof. Dr. Bruno Vogt Nadine Graubardt
Nephrology and Hypertension PD Dr. Semmo Nasser (Prof. Dr. Guido Beldi)
Hepatology Impact of extracellular nucleotides on NK
Prof. Dr. Roland von Känel cell function and differentiation during
Psychosomatic Medicine PD Dr. Jean-Marc Nuoffer liver regeneration
Endocrinology / Diabetology /
Professor Metabolism (Paediatrics) Anne Géraldine Guex
(PD Dr. Marie-Noëlle Giraud-Flück)
Prof. Dr. Nicolas Regamey PD Dr. Andreas Pasch Design and functionalization of
Pulmonary Medicine (Paediatrics) Nephrology and Hypertension electrospun substrates for muscle repair

Associate Professor PD Dr. Tobias Traupe Magali Humbert
Cardiology (PD Dr. Mario P. Tschan)
Prof. Dr. Nicolas Alexander Diehm Role and Regulation of Krüppel-like factor
Angiology PhD 5 (KLF5) and death-associated protein
(supervisors in brackets) kinase 2 (DAPK2) in differentiation of
Prof. Dr. Daniel Inderbitzin acute myeloid leukemia blasts
Visceral and Transplantation Surgery
Deepak Haresh Balani Melissa Agnes Eve Lawson
Prof. Dr. Alain Kaelin (Prof. Dr. Michael Seitz, (Prof. Dr. Andrew J. Macpherson,
Neurology Prof. Dr. Willy Hofstetter) Prof. Dr. Kathy McCoy)
Role of inflammatory cytokines in The two-way interactions between
Assistant Professor osteoclast development commensal intestinal bacteria and the
mammalian host
Prof. Dr. Kathy McCoy Pomme Boissier
Gastroenterology / Mucosal (Prof. Dr. Uyen Huynh-Do) Daniel Lienhard
Immunology Endocytic regulation and targeting of (Prof. Dr. Brigitte Frey)
EphA2 in pancreatic cancer High salt intake down-regulates colonic
Lecturer (Privatdozent) 11b-HSD2, mineralocorticoid receptors
Tania Buehler and epithelial sodium channels
PD Dr. Daniel Aeberli (Prof. Dr. Chris Boesch)
Rheumatology Development and application of magnetic Erin Leigh MacMillan
resonance spectroscopy methods in studies (Prof. Dr. Roland Kreis)
on insulin resistance and metabolism of Application of metabolite cycled
human liver and skeletal muscle non-water-suppressed magnetic resonance
spectroscopy, and measurement of mag-
netization transfer between water and

66 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

Personnel Update

metabolites, in the human brain, spinal and positioning of Th17 cells in the Claudia Dührkop
cord, and skeletal muscles at 3 T and 7 T inflamed liver Cardiovascular Research
Poster Award (3rd prize), Pharmaceutical
Sarah Mans Oliver Peter Fuchs Society of Zurich: “C1 esterase inhibitor
(Prof. Dr. Thomas Pabst) (Prof. Dr. Urs Frey, Prof. Dr. Claudia Kuehni) treatment in skeletal muscle ischemia/rep-
The role of extracellular calreticulin in The impact of genes and environment on erfusion injury”
acute myeloid leukemia (AML) respiratory disease in infants and children
PD Dr. Volker Enzmann
Stéphane Rodriguez Elisabeth Kieninger Ophthalmology
(Prof. Dr. Uyen Huynh-Do) (Prof. Dr. Nicolas Regamey) Euretina Poster Competition 2012
Eph receptors in health and disease states Clinical impact and pathophysiology of (1st Prize), 2nd Euretina Winter Meeting:
viral inflections and early lung disease “Bone marrow-derived stem cell trans-
Madhusudanarao Vuda in cystic fibrosis plantation in a Mouse Model of retinal
(Prof. Dr. Stephan Jakob) degeneration”
Mitochondrial function in sepsis: Effects of Berna Özdemir
vasoactive support and analgo-sedation (Prof. Dr. George Thalmann) Dr. Markus Geuking
The stroma reaction in osteoblastic bone Gastroenterology / Mucosal Immunology
MD metastases of prostate cancer – Cancer Dr. Lutz Zwillenberg Prize 2012: “Intestinal
(supervisor in brackets) cells reinvent the wheel bacterial colonization induces mutualistic
regulatory T cell responses”
Florian Aelle Christoph Schlapbach
(Prof. Dr. Anne-Catherine Andres) (PD Dr. Robert Hunger) Anne Géraldine Guex
Immunhistochemische Untersuchung von Telomerase-specific GV1001 peptide Cardiovascular Surgery
Lokalisierung und Differenzierungsgrad vaccination in patients with cutaneous CSF-Award for best contribution, 7th
der Brustepithel-Stammzellen während der T cell lymphoma International Ascona Workshop on Cardio-
Entwicklung myocyte Biology: “Functionalised Scaffolds
Christian Martijn Schürch for myocardial VEGF delivery”
Samuel Jakob Küchler (Prof. Dr. Adrian Ochsenbein)
(Prof. Dr. Anne-Catherine Andres) Immune surveillance of cancer stem cells Prof. Dr. Ernst B. Hunziker
Immunhistochemische Strukturanalyse der in chronic myeloid leukemia Orthopaedic Surgery
murinen Brustdrüsen-Outgrowths von Marshall R. Urist Award for Excellence in
Ephrin-B2 und EphB4-modifizierten Zellen Awards Tissue Regeneration Research

Mischa Mosimann The following DCR group members Christopher Jackson
(Prof. Dr. Anne-Catherine Andres) received awards in 2012: Human Genetics
Die Gefässdichte in experimentellen DKF Poster Prize for best laboratory-
metastasierenden und nicht-metastasier- Dr. Chiara Abbas oriented project
enden Brustkarzinomen Pulmonary Medicine (Paediatrics)
Award of the Young Researchers in Prof. Dr. Stephan Jakob,
Angelica Ramseier Paediatrics, Swiss Society of Paediatrics Prof. Dr. Jukka Takala
(PD Dr. Gian-Marco Sarra) Annual Meeting: “A new lung function Intensive Medicine
Characterisation of retinal stem cells and test to assess early lung disease and Prize for best clinical publication, Swiss
evidence of C-Met expression treatment effects in CF” Society of Intensive Care Medicine:
“Dexmedetomidine vs midazolam or
MD PhD Dr. Mohamed Yassine Amarouch propofol for sedation during prolonged
(supervisors in brackets) Ion Channels and Channelopathies mechanical ventilation: two randomized
Poster Award of the European Society of controlled trials.”
Maria Luisa Balmer Cardiology Working Group on Cardiac
(Prof. Dr. Andrew J. Macpherson) Cellular Electrophysiology Prof. Dr. Roland Kreis
Immune pathology and physiology of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
commensal bacterial containment Dr. Henriette Brinks and Methodology, AMSM
Cardiovascular Surgery Fellow of the European Society of Magnetic
Vanessa Banz Wüthrich Research Prize 2012: “Ventricular Resonance in Medicine and Biology
(PD Dr. Deborah Stroka) unloading combined with inotropic gene
CXCR3 and CCR6 mediate recruitment therapy in the failing heart” Cédric Laedermann
Ion Channels and Channelopathies
Young Investigator Award (2nd prize),

67 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

Personnel Update

Oetliker Foundation for Physiology: Best Communication SSVS, 13th Annual Thomas Späti
“Ubiquitin ligase Nedd4-2 modulates pe- Meeting, Union of Vascular Societies IT-Support (60%), Administration
ripheral sensory voltage-gated sodium chan- of Switzerland: “Improved assessment of (since July)
nels and contributes to neuropathic pain” follow-up in the context of observation
studies efficacy results of a randomised Resignations
Prof. Dr. Kathy McCoy controlled investigation”
Gastroenterology / Mucosal Immunology Steven Balestra
European Research Council Starting PD Dr. Martin A. Walter IT-Support (30%), Administration
Grant Award Nuclear Medicine (until Mar.)
EANM Eckert & Ziegler Abstract Award,
Dr. Martin Müller European Society of Nuclear Medicine Larissa Bettler
Prenatal Medicine Annual Meeting Laboratory Technician (30%), Osteoporosis
Bayer-Schering Prize for best scientific Densitometry DOPH (until Mar.)
work in gynaecology: “Early intracranial Staff Changes
mesenchymal stem cell therapy after Dr. Christine Capper Loup
perinatal rat brain damage” New Staff Research Assistant (15%), Neurology
(until Mar.); transfer to Inselspital
Dr. Emrush Rexhaj Dr. Marco Alves
Cardiology PhD (100%), Pulmonary Medicine Franziska Gisler
Postdoctoral Novel Disease Model Award, (Paediatrics) (since May) Doctoral Student (50%), Human Genetics
American Physiological Society Experimen- (until Dec.); transfer to Inselspital
tal Biology 2012 Meeting; 2012 Faculty Louis Amport
Prize for doctoral thesis, Faculty of Biology DCR Secretary (10%), Administration Monika Graf
and Medicine, University of Lausanne (since Aug.) Laboratory Technician (50%), Pulmonary
Medicine (Paediatrics) (until Dec.); transfer
PD Dr. Andreas Schoenenberger Dr. Fabian Blank to Inselspital
Geriatrics / Medicine of Ageing Head (40%), Live Cell Imaging (LCI)
Best Abstract Prize, Swiss Society of (since Mar.) Gaby Hofer
Cardio­logy: Risk factors, hypertension, Laboratory Technician (80%), Endocrino­
rehabilitation, thromboembolism: Dr. Julia Cahenzli logy / Diabetology / Metabolism (Paediatrics)
“Invasive findings in patients with angina Research Assistant (100%), (until Dec.); transfer to Inselspital
equivalent symptoms but no coronary Gastroenterol­ogy / Mucosal Immunology
artery disease; results from the heart (since Sep.) Irena Klima
quest cohort study” Laboratory Technician (60%), Urology
Basak Ginsbourger (until Feb.); transfer to Inselspital
Prof. Dr. Anton Sculean DCR Administrator (100%), Administration
Dental Research (since Nov.) Véronique Kretschmer
IADR-/Straumann Award in Regenerative DCR Administrator (80%), Administration
Periodontal Medicine 2012 Michael Jäger (until Feb.)
Doctoral Student (100%), Psychiatry
Diana Shy (since Jan.) Therese Lauterburg
Ion Channels and Channelopathies Laboratory Technician (80%), Neurology
Poster Prize, 2012 EUTrigTreat General Sophie Lagache Braga (until Mar.)
Assembly Laboratory Technician (100%), Mass
Spectrometry and Proteomics Laboratory Hai Li
Dr. Florian Singer (since Jan.) PhD (100%), Gastroenterology / Mucosal
Pulmonary Medicine (Paediatrics) Immunology (until Dec.)
Poster Prize, German Society for Paediatric Dr. Melissa Lawson
Pneumology Annual Meeting: “Ist eine Research Assistant (100%), Ludmilla Lieder
effiziente Messung des Lung Clearence Gastroentero­logy / Mucosal Immunology Laboratory Technician (80%), Human
Index in der Routine CF Ambulanz möglich?” (since Apr.) Genetics (until Apr.)

Christian Tinner, Dr. Regula von Dr. Svitlana Palchykova Ida Schiess
Allmen, PD Dr. Florian Dick, Research Assistant (50%), Neurology Laboratory Technician (80%), Osteoporosis
Prof. Dr. Jürg Schmidli, (since Mar.) Densitometry DOPH (until Dec.); transfer
Prof. Dr. Hendrik Tevaearai to Inselspital
Cardiovascular Surgery

68 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

Personnel Update

Sabine Schneider Kwet Choy Kwong Chung Cheong
Laboratory Technician (50%), Cytometry Doctoral Student (100%), Gastroentero­
Laboratory / FACSlab (until Mar.) logy / Mucosal Immunology (Dec.)

Jan Stohler Berna Oezdemir
IT-Support (40%), Administration Doctoral Student (100%), Urology
(until June) (July-Sep.)

Dr. Stefan Wyder Dr. Carsten Riether
Research Assistant (90%), Molecular PhD (100%), Tumor-Immunology
Biology, and Genomics (until Oct.) (Jan.-Mar.)

Short Employment (<12 months) Jennifer Leona Scheffler
Laboratory Technician (20%) Tumour-Im-
Dr. Francesca Baracchi munology (Feb.-Aug.)
Research Assistant (50%), Neurology
(Apr.-Oct.) Dr. Martina Schobesberger
Laboratory Technician (40%), Neurology
Dr. Reto Bertolini (May-Dec.)
PhD (60%), Nephrology and Hypertension
(Jan.-Dec.) Dr. Nahoko Shintani
Research Assistant (75%), Osteoporosis
Gaby Bloem Densitometry DOPH (Dec.)
DCR Administrator (90%), Administration
(Mar.-Sep.) Nathalie Vielle
Doctoral Student (100%), Pulmonary
Anjan Bongoni Medicine (Paediatrics) (Apr.-June)
Doctoral Student (100%), Cardiovascular
Research (Aug.-Dec.) Véronique Vocat
Doctoral Student (100%), Molecular
Pomme Boissier Biology (Oct.-Dec.)
Doctoral Student (100%), Nephrology
and Hypertension (June-Sep.)

Dr. Bo Gao Brunner
Research Assistant (50%), Neurology
(Feb.-May)

Julie Denojelle
Laboratory Technician (80%), Cardio­
vascular Research (July-Dec.)

Claudia Dürkop
Doctoral Student (100%), Cardiovascular
Research (July-Dec.)

Janine Hensel
Doctoral Student (100%), Urology (Dec.)

Aleksandra Hodor
Doctoral Student (100%), Neurology
(July-Dec.)

Anne-Laure Huguenin
Laboratory Technician (60%), Oncology /
Haematology (Adults) (Sep.-Dec.)

69 DCR Annual Report 2012 / DKF Jahresbericht 2012

DCR Director: Prof. Dr. Hugues Abriel
Coordination: Verena Frazao
Editing: Leah Witton
Layout: Nadine Wüthrich Graphic Design
Photos: DCR; Susi Bürki, Inselspital
Print: Rub Graf-Lehmann AG, 3001 Bern; PrintServices, Inselspital
© 2013 Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern