Welcome to the Research Group Meyer zu Reckendorf
Traumatic nerve injuries and peripheral neuropathies can lead to lasting motor and sensory impairments as well as chronic pain. Although peripheral nerves have an intrinsic capacity for regeneration, this is often insufficient to fully restore function or compensate for progressive nerve damage.
Our research group investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern these regenerative processes. We focus on Schwann cells, their interactions with axons and immune cells, and the roles of metabolic regulation and mitochondrial function. Our goal is to develop new pharmacological approaches to promote nerve regeneration.
Current Research Focus
Metabolism and Mitochondria
We investigate how mitochondrial function, lipid metabolism and glycolysis in Schwann cells influence nerve regeneration and the development of diabetic neuropathy. Our aim is to selectively modulate metabolic processes to limit nerve damage and promote regeneration.
Schwann Cell Plasticity and Remyelination
We explore how Schwann cells switch between repair and myelinating states and enable the restoration of myelin sheaths. We focus on the transcription factor SOX10 and the bioactive lipid sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P).
Immunomodulation and Targeted Therapies
We investigate how interactions between Schwann cells and macrophages can be modulated therapeutically. Our approaches include pharmacological interventions with glucocorticoids and S1P, local administration of preconditioned macrophages, and the development of nanoparticles for cell-specific drug delivery.
Senescence and Neuroma Formation
Using human nerve tissue, we investigate whether senescent Schwann cells contribute to fibrosis and persistent inflammation following traumatic nerve injuries. Our aim is to identify pharmacological approaches to modulate these processes.
Members
Clinical Scientists (GEROK)
Stefanie Deininger
Postdocoral Scientists
Dr. Antonia Seitz
PhD Students
Pranav Nanda Kumar
Sina Beck
Mirjam Barth
Medical Doctoral Studens
Anna Blechschmid
Mathilda Dausacker
Maximilian Hammrich
Master Students
Sara La Greca
Funding
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft
SFB1149
Medical Scientist Programm der Uni Ulm
Eliteprogramm für Postdoktorand*innen der BaWü Stiftung
Novartis Oppenheim Förderpreis
Dr. Sofia Meyer zu Reckendorf
Tel.: 0731 50 22897
sofia.meyer-zu-reckendorf@uni-ulm.de
Albert-Einstein-Allee 11
Neues Forschungsgebäude, N27
89081 Ulm