Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP

Dr. Schara Safarian took up a visiting professorship at the Institute of Translational Medicine at the First Hospital of Jilin University in China in October. The appointment is part of a scientific exchange agreement and is intended to further intensify international cooperation. At the same time, it strengthens the strategic positioning of the Fraunhofer ITMP on the Chinese research market.

With the ceremonial inauguration of the new building on the Niederrad campus, the Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP has set another milestone for the research landscape in Hesse. Around 200 high-ranking representatives from politics, science and industry as well as the trades involved in the construction gathered at the invitation of Prof. Dr. Dr. Gerd Geißlinger, executive director of the Fraunhofer ITMP, for the opening ceremony. The new research building brings together expertise in translational medicine and strengthens Hesse as a pharmaceutical and biotech location.

Researchers at Fraunhofer ITMP have identified a promising approach for children affected by KCNQ2-related epilepsy. A drug originally developed as an antipsychotic has shown the ability to activate KCNQ2 potassium channels and significantly reduce seizure-like activity. The findings, based on patient-derived brain cells and animal models, suggest the potential of repurposing this compound into much‑needed therapy, opening up new hope for affected families.