EpigeneticsPneumology
Molecular Epidemiology
Irina Lehmann
Research of Molecular Epidemiology Unit at the Berlin Institute of Health and the Charité is focused on epigenetic modifications that occur in close interaction between the individual genetic background and environmental exposure and potentially contribute to increased disease risks. Thereby, we are in particular interested to identify key events responsible for the switch from health to disease.
Contact for inquirie
Jasmin Thierfelder-Matuszak
Team Assistant / Project Coordination
Kapelle-Ufer 2
10117 Berlin
+49 30 450 543 146
jasmin.thierfelder@bih-charite.de
In longitudinal cohort and patient studies we combine genome-wide epigenetic analyses with system medicine approaches to identify predictive markers for disease. Research in this field is driven by two major aims: the early identification of high risk patients and the characterization of sensitive time windows and subpopulations as basis for individualized prevention strategies.
There is strong evidence that many diseases developed during adulthood might have a origin in the childhood period. We are therefore are particularly interested in epigenetic programming during early life with a focus on lung diseases and early childhood asthma.
Research focus
- Epigenetics of childhood asthma
- Early childhood imprinting of asthma/allergies, overweight and behavioral disorders
- Epigenetic alterations by particulate air pollution
Selected publications
Projects
Epigenetic changes with increased fine dust pollution
There is strong evidence for particulate matter caused adverse health effects including cardiovascular diseases, lung inflammation and metabolic disorders. Some recent studies report epigenetic modifications such as alterations of DNA methylation in association with particle exposure. However, available data in this field are sparse and inconsistent. To close this gap of knowledge, this project will provide comprehensive, genome-wide data on DNA-methylation and microRNA-expression pattern based on sequencing approaches from individuals exposed to particulate matter. The final aim is to identify epigenetic marker signatures predictive for later disease development.
Funded by the Umweltbundesamt (FKZ 3717 62b204 0)
Funding duration: November 2018 – April 2021
Volume: 1, 36 Mio €
Project coordination: Prof. Dr. Irina Lehmann / Dr. Saskia Trump (Molekular Epidemiology Unit, BIH and Charité)
Co-operation partner:
Prof. Dr. Roland Eils and Dr. Naveed Ishaque (BIH and Charité Centre for Digital Health)
Dr. Tomasz Zimojtel (Core Unit Genomics at BIH)
Dr. Dominik Lermen and Dr. Martina Bartel-Steinbach (Fraunhofer-Institute for Biomedical Engeneering IBMT)
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