Biology Olympiad: Students research on Alzheimer's and genetics in Kaiserslautern

Biology Olympiad: Students research on Alzheimer's and genetics in Kaiserslautern

Universität Kaiserslautern, 67663 Kaiserslautern, Deutschland - Today, talented young people gather in the RPTU in Kaiserslautern who take part in the 36th International Biology Olympics. In this context, you not only get an insight into the world of biological research, but also get important information about the biology studies. The pupils experiment with experienced scientists and can research various sub -areas of biology, including human biology, cytology, microbiology/genetics and bioinformatics.

A central focus of practical tests lies on molecular mechanisms and the neuropathology of diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. The participants learn how to produce blood preparations, examine their own blood under the microscope and isolate DNA. In this way you can also observe the growth of bacteria and get to know the basics of computer -aided system biology. The students are looked after by a team of experts, including Dr. Anne Schaarschuch and Professor Dr. Stefan Kins.

complex processes of Alzheimer's research

An essential aspect of today's research is the understanding of Alzheimer's, one of the most common neurodegenerative diseases. The international team led by Ralf Braun from the University of Bayreuth and Frank Madeo from the University of Graz has made decisive progress in investigating cell biological processes that lead to this disease. These findings can possibly contribute to the development of new therapeutic approaches.

In nerve cells of Alzheimer's patients, insufficiently dismantled mutants represent themselves as a problem that disturb normal protein breakdown and damage the mitochondria. These cell organelles, which are responsible for vital metabolic processes, show a disturbed function that may lead to an increase in basic amino acids and oxidative stress. Such biochemical changes can ultimately increase cell death and neurodegenerative processes.

research impulses and challenges

The role of amyloid protective proteins and their fragments are also the subject of intensive research. The working group at the University of Heidelberg deals with the examination of knockout mice to research the functions of app (amyloid predecessor protein) and its related genes. These studies help to better understand the physiological roles of these proteins and to clarify the mechanisms that lead to synaptic dysfunctions and neuronal losses.

While the students actively take part in the biology Olympics, they are not only prepared for the challenges that are waiting for them in Kiel, but also on the big issues of today's biological research. In the end, a competition for the best places will take place: Four participants will have the opportunity to win medals at the Olympics, which takes place in Quezon City, Philippines from July 13th to 2025.

The enthusiasm for this competition is growing steadily. Of the 90 participants of the first round, 39 were able to qualify for the second round. Rhineland-Palatinate is represented in this selection process by the students Franziska Maier, Vincent Eberle and Selin Senal. Further information on the Biology Olympiad can be found at Biology-Olympiade.de