News from the Faculty of Medicine in Bochum
Here you will find the latest news and press releases from the Faculty of Medicine at Ruhr University Bochum.
For older press releases, please take a look at our archive. Do you have questions about our faculty or would you like to report on us? Here you will find our press contact.
News
Donate blood at Ruhr University
In everyday life, we rely on the healthcare system to function: cancer patients receive life-saving treatments, and accident victims get the blood transfusions they need. Extreme heat or cold, holidays, public vacations, and major sporting events regularly reduce the number of blood donations. At the same time, demand in hospitals fluctuates. This repeatedly leads to shortages in the blood supply. There is no artificial substitute for blood. Only donors can help. Donating blood at RUB is very easy: the German Red Cross regularly visits the Mensa building.
A great honor for a leading researcher from Bochum
For his internationally recognized work in biochemistry and his many years of dedication to research, teaching, and the promotion of young scientists, Prof. Dr. Ralf Erdmann has been awarded the Federal Cross of Merit. His findings make a significant contribution to the understanding of serious diseases while simultaneously strengthening Germany’s position as a global center for science. For many years, he has shaped research at Ruhr University Bochum and has also contributed to important scientific committees. He is well connected internationally and is actively involved in joint projects and conferences. A particular concern of his is the support of young scientists, whom he has successfully mentored over decades.
When websites become automatically irresistible
Why does the internet exert such a powerful pull on some people? An international study involving Prof. Dr. Martin Diers from Ruhr University Bochum shows that individuals with problematic internet use respond much more strongly to addiction-related cues—often unconsciously. The findings provide important insights into identifying at-risk groups and developing new training approaches to help people better manage digital temptations.
LWL University Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine under new medical leadership
A new direction for psychosomatic medicine in Bochum: Prof. Dr. Georgios Paslakis takes over as head of the clinic at the LWL University Hospital and assumes the professorship at Ruhr University Bochum. With a strong focus on underrepresented patient groups and gender-sensitive research, he aims to closely integrate clinical excellence with innovative scientific approaches.
Sebastian Merkel researches technological innovations in healthcare
Digital innovations are rapidly transforming medicine and care: apps and AI applications promise relief, improved patient outcomes, and more efficient processes. But how do these technologies actually impact everyday practice? At Ruhr University Bochum, Prof. Dr. Sebastian Merkel explores this question—examining not only the benefits and risks, but above all the often underestimated social consequences for patients, healthcare professionals, and the healthcare system as a whole.
New Center for Psychology and Translational Neuroscience
With the new Center for Medical Psychology and Translational Neuroscience, Sigrid Elsenbruch, Adriane Icenhour, and Dirk Scheele at Ruhr-Universität Bochum are strengthening interdisciplinary research at the interface of brain, body, and behavior. Focusing on mechanisms of pain, stress, and social processes, the initiative aims to translate cutting-edge findings into improved prevention, diagnosis, and therapeutic strategies in clinical practice.
What underlies inherited cardiac arrhythmias
An international research team, including scientists from Ruhr University Bochum, has uncovered novel pathophysiological mechanisms underlying Short QT Syndrome. The study focuses on mutations in the SLC4A3 gene, demonstrating that they elevate intracellular pH, thereby altering ion currents and shortening action potential duration. These changes promote arrhythmogenesis while also revealing potential targets for personalized therapeutic strategies using established antiarrhythmic drugs. Published in the European Heart Journal, the findings significantly advance the molecular understanding of this rare yet life-threatening condition.
CRISPR system inhibits hepatitis E virus
A team at Ruhr-Universität Bochum demonstrates how cutting-edge CRISPR technology can be used to specifically inhibit the hepatitis E virus: In cell culture, an RNA-targeting CRISPR/Cas13d system significantly reduced viral replication without harming host cells. Particularly relevant for medical research, only a small number of carefully designed crRNAs were sufficient to cover a broad range of viral variants. Published in JHEP Reports, these findings provide a promising proof of concept for CRISPR-based antiviral therapies—an approach that could ultimately open new treatment options for viral infections like hepatitis E, which currently lack effective targeted therapies.
Discredited study sheds light on burn care treatment
Despite sharp criticism, a widely discussed study from Ruhr University Bochum provides important insights into the treatment of severe burn injuries. Conducted at Bergmannsheil and completed in 2017, the research examined whether an established medical procedure could improve the healing of burn wounds—under strictly controlled and legally regulated conditions. Public criticism, however, falls short and overlooks key scientific aspects. A closer look reveals the nuanced approach to research at Ruhr University Bochum and its contribution to improving care for patients with severe burns.
Better understanding and treating disorders of the gut–brain axis
A recent review led by Prof. Dr. Sigrid Elsenbruch and published in Gastroenterology brings together, for the first time, evidence-based psychosocial approaches to treating disorders of gut–brain interaction in both adults and children. The work, with contributions from Ruhr-Universität Bochum, highlights the importance of a holistic understanding of these complex conditions. It provides practical guidance for modern, interdisciplinary care and is set to become a key reference in the field.
Information platform on clinical trials in NRW online with a new update
The information platform for clinical trials in North Rhine-Westphalia is now available in an updated version. It can still be accessed via the Medizin.NRW website and at www.klinische-studien.nrw.
Immunotherapy halves recurrence rate in certain forms of colorectal cancer
With significant involvement from Ruhr-Universität Bochum, the ATOMIC trial marks a breakthrough in the treatment of stage III dMMR colorectal cancer: combining standard adjuvant chemotherapy with the immunotherapy atezolizumab reduces the risk of recurrence or death by around 50% compared to chemotherapy alone. Coordinated by Prof. Anke Reinacher-Schick at St. Josef-Hospital, the study provides the first clear evidence of a clinically meaningful benefit of immunotherapy in the adjuvant setting for this molecularly defined patient group. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the findings establish a new standard of care and highlight the importance of international, biomarker-driven research collaborations.