Constanze Schmidt: Revolution in cardiology at the UMG in Göttingen!

Constanze Schmidt: Revolution in cardiology at the UMG in Göttingen!

A lot is happening in the world of cardiology, and one shining ray of hope is Constanze Schmidt, who took over as the new director of the Clinic for Cardiology and Pulmonology at the University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG) on July 1st. [Göttinger Tageblatt]. “Youth researches” in biology at the age of 13.

The researcher, who was born in Lüneburg, worked in renowned institutions during her studies in Göttingen, where she studied human medicine and physics from 2003 to 2009. She not only received her doctorate in 2011, but also continued her career with a habilitation and a professorship at the University of Heidelberg. The 36-year-old Schmidt is the only woman in Germany with a chair in cardiology and has made a name for herself in research, particularly in the area of ​​cellular electrophysiology.

Innovative approaches in cardiology

A central topic in Schmidt's research is the TASK-1 ion channels, which play an essential role in the development of atrial fibrillation. A Schmidt project team has discovered that these channels are more common in the human atrium in patients with atrial fibrillation. These findings could lay the foundation for new treatment methods that can significantly improve the lives of those affected. Herzstiftung reports on a promising drug that blocks the TASK-1 ion channels and could thus restore normal heart rhythm.

The symptoms of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation should not be underestimated - palpitations, weakness, headaches and nausea put a lot of strain on patients. With the development of a well-tolerated drug, not only could the heart rhythm be restored quickly; The quality of life of those affected could also increase significantly. Schmidt and her team have already started the first test phase with an already approved drug that has proven to be well tolerated.

Visions for the future

Schmidt not only focuses on innovative research, but also on the connection between heart and brain. She is interested in the interactions between these two organs, an approach that is becoming increasingly important in cardiological research. She also plans to develop new treatment concepts such as so-called “heart tattoos” to counteract cardiac arrhythmias. With numerous scientific awards and five registered patents, Schmidt has a good hand not only in theory but also in practice.

Schmidt is also involved in the training of young cardiologists. She wants to use interactive formats and practical teaching methods to inspire and educate the next generation of physicians. Her return to Göttingen is not only celebrated as a personal triumph, but could also be the starting signal for a new era in cardiology at UMG. Thanks to innovative approaches and a clear focus on the practical application of her research results, Constanze Schmidt could play a decisive role in the further development of cardiac medicine.