Thermogenesis studies in animal models
With our infrared camera we measure the thermogenesis of mice in the brown fat tissue in the neck of the animals in a non-contact and non-invasive way. In addition, we can determine heat release via tail temperature.
Studies at the cellular level
We study the molecular mechanisms of various metabolic or endocrine processes at the cellular level. Here, we use established cell lines, primary cell cultures or tissue sections, such as the group of parvalbuminergic neurons in the brain shown here.
Welcome to the website of the Institute of Experimental Endocrinology
The Institute of Experimental Endocrinology developed in 2024 from the Institute for Endocrinology and Diabetes, which was founded by the University of Lübeck in 2020 to give the research fields of endocrinology more independence and improved national and international visibility. The overall goal of the institute is translational endocrine research in diverse in vivo and in vitro model systems.
Specifically we investigate the effect of thyroid hormones on the cardiovascular system, the regulation of body temperature and the central nervous system. Here, the main focus is on a newly discovered population of hypothalamic neurons that regulate blood pressure and heart rate in a temperature-dependent manner and are primarily dependent on maternal thyroid hormones during their development in the embryo. In a second project, we study the actions of androgens on metabolism, heart and sex development. The overall goal of our research is a better understanding of the local hormone action in distinct cells and organs, and how these actions can be manipulated for therapeutic strategies.
The research institute thus works in an interdisciplinary manner at the interface of endocrinology with physiology, cardiology, neurology and pediatrics.
We hope you enjoy exploring our pages!
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Jens Mittag
