Theranostic Targets and Experimental Models

This research group focuses on the functional characterization of novel, tumor-specific molecular targets to evaluate their suitability for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, particularly in the context of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and multiple myeloma. Particular emphasis is placed on developing and utilizing precisely defined three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models and co-culture systems that realistically replicate the tumor microenvironment and enable the study of tumor-stroma interactions. Furthermore, the group focuses on establishing appropriate mouse models, involving either disseminated growth or orthotopic tumor models, to investigate tumor growth and metastasis, as well as to conduct radiopharmacological evaluations of novel radiodiagnostics and radiotherapeutics. The multidisciplinary approach integrates modern techniques from the fields of cell biology, molecular biology, genetic engineering, protein biochemistry, radiobiology, and histological analysis. In addition, advanced imaging techniques - applied at both the cellular level and in animal models v-are used to comprehensively analyze the functional expression of target genes and the pharmacokinetics/-dynamics of radiotracers and radiotherapeutics.

Recent key publications

• Schädlich J. et al., Molecules, 31:1944, 2026.
• Ullrich M. et al., Theranostics, 16:8461, 2026.
• Maus J. et al., ACS Measurement Science AU, 6:411, 2026.

Projects (multicenter)

• Therapeutic potential of magnetic field stimulation (e.g. in axon regeneration): collaboration with Herrmannsdoerfer group (Strongly Correlated Electron Systems) at HZDR and the universities in Dresden and Rostock

Research initiatives

• Magnetic Field Stimulation in Cancer Theranostics