Prof. Dr Marc Freichel's Laboratory
Research in Dr. Freichel's laboratory is primarily focused on ion channels regulating the influx of calcium ions (Ca2+) as messengers for cellular and systemic functions. The main interest is currently directed at TRP and Ca2+ channels and their role for calcium signaling in cells of the cardiovascular system (endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, cardiac fibroblasts, platelets), epididymal cells and mast cells, their corresponding integrative body functions including vascular and cardiac contractility, transmitter secretion, blood pressure regulation, blood vessel formation, fertility and mast cell activation as well and their role during maladaptive cardiac remodeling and for the development of diabetes mellitus associated long term sequelae. The laboratory has a long lasting experience in transgenic approaches using gene targeting in embryonic stem cells for the generation of disease models and for the identification and validation of new drug targets.