Team

Head of the Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Principal Investigator

My major areas of research are peripheral nerve regeneration and tissue engineering with a focus on nerve conduit implantation, cell transplantation and cell replacement strategies, as well as microsurgical repair techniques.

To achieve the production of nerve conduits specialized to treat long-distance peripheral nerve defects, my lab investigates and brings together diverse strategies comprising Schwann and stem cells, extra cellular vesicles, and functionalized biomaterials.

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My research aims to uncover the molecular mechansism driving the plasticity of human Schwann cells in response to peripheral nerve injury and disease.
I investigate the cellular changes and functional competences of human Schwann cells during nerve regeneration and tumor development to design novel therapies for targeted Schwann cell modulation in pathologies of the peripheral nervous system. 

Contact: tamara.weiss@meduniwien.ac.at

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My research involves characterization of native spider silk for finding a correlation between its material properties and its success in supporting peripheral nerve regeneration. I am also interested in employing spectroscopical methods for quantification of nerve regeneration. In addition, I use ultrashort pulsed lasers for precise and targeted production of functional materials with tailored properties.

Contact: aida.naghilou@meduniwien.ac.at

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My background is mainly in molecular and regenerative biology. My main research interests are regeneration and cell-cell fusion. Having previously worked with rat and newt animal models for regeneration, I am now turning my eyes to nerve regeneration augmented by spider silk.

Contact: jonas.eriksson@meduniwien.ac.at

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I am interested in how biomaterials such as hydrogels and spider silk fibers affect the behavior of primary Schwann cells, fibroblasts and nerve cells. In order to investigate the cells’ migratory capabilities, I implement live cell imaging and tracking analysis. In addition, I study the viability and the proliferation of the cells. This work in combination with detailed material characterization will identify the components and properties crucial for peripheral nerve regeneration. This allows efficient application of biomaterials and facilitates the production of synthetic alternatives.

Contact: flavia.millesi@meduniwien.ac.at

ORCID

Within the scope of my research, I try to unravel the unique properties of spider silk responsible for its exceptional ability to support peripheral nerve regeneration. I combine methods such as mass spectrometry, electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy, with in vitro studies to determine the crucial chemical, structural, and morphological properties of spider silk.

Contact: sarah.stadlmayer@meduniwien.ac.at

ORCID

I am investigating the potential application of adipose stem cell derived extracellular vesicles (ADSC-EVs) in peripheral nerve regeneration. My research is focused on the pro-regenerative effects of ADSC-EVs on Schwann cells and the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. In a current in-vitro project, the internalization and intracellular re-localization of ADSC-EVs in Schwann cells is studied with the help of high-resolution imaging methods.

Contact: maximilian.haertinger@meduniwien.ac.at

ORCID 

I am a Fulbright research grantee from the U.S. working on a project concerning immune cell interactions with spider silk. The goal is to refine the biocompatible properties of spider silk applications in plastic surgery, which begins with detailing the immunogenicity of the material.

To identify the best combination of silk-based nerve conduits and luminal guiding structures, I evaluate their performance in animal studies. In addition, I investigate novel ways to improve nerve gliding properties to treat patients suffering from carüal tunnel syndrome. 

Contact: lorenz.semmler@meduniwien.ac.at

ORCID

My main research focus lies on peripheral nerve regeneration. I investigate the pathophysiology of experimental peripheral nerve injury and its response to stem cell therapy. In order to elucidate structural and functional change, we utilize novel readout techniques in the fields of preclinical imaging, as well as electrophysiological and histomorphological assessment.

Contact: paul.supper@meduniwien.ac.at

ORCID

I am investigating spider silk as an innovative treatment for spinal cord injury. Applying my experiences with functional read outs in the rat model paired with histomorphological and molecular analyses, my aim is to assess potential functional benefits and provide insight into the underlying processes.

Contact: alexander.ruehrnoessl@meduniwien.ac.at

My research focuses on the biomedical applications of spider silk, including peripheral nerve regeneration and wound healing. My aim is to translate its potential into clinical practice by assessing the material's safety in human subjects.

Contact: felix.bergmann@meduniwien.ac.at

ORCID

My aim is to discover clinical relevant treatment options for patients with peripheral nerve injuries. I am investigating stem cell-based approaches to improve the regenerative process. Additionally, I explore extracellular vesicles derived from stem cells as a cell-free alternative.

Contact: anton.borger@meduniwien.ac.at

Signal transduction is important for the regulation of numerous cellular functions including peripheral nerve injury response. Transporters and receptors are crucial for this process. Peripheral nerve injury triggers adaptive changes in the neuronal soma, including changes in expression of transporters and receptors. My current work focuses on understanding the role of transporters and receptors in nerve regeneration. Furthermore, I aim to explore the efficacy and the mechanism of action of various drugs that are described to promote neuroregeneration.

Contact: didem.uen@meduniwien.ac.at

My research is targeted on the regenerative effect of low nuclear magnetic resonance therapy (NMRT) as a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of injured peripheral nerves. I am studying the interaction of neurons and Schwann cells and the cellular and molecular mechanisms facilitating the favorable effect of NMR therapy. Additionally, I am responsible for the good laboratory organization.

Contact: anda.mann@meduniwien.ac.at

I am specialized in variety of immunohistochemical methods to analyze the morphological changes of tissues in pathological conditions. In addition, I manage administrative tasks of the daily laboratory routine.

Contact: sonja.wolf@meduniwien.ac.at

Contact: n11924392@students.meduniwien.ac.at

Contact: sophie.steinwenter@meduniwien.ac.at