Bispecific T cell engager therapy for refractory rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that leads to inflammation of the joints. Various immunosuppressive medications are approved for treatment, but a significant proportion of patients respond inadequately to established therapies. B cells play an important role in rheumatoid arthritis. In our study, we used T-cell engagers for the first time to treat refractory rheumatoid arthritis. T-cell engagers act as a bridge between T cells and B cells, leading to the elimination of B cells.
Else Kröner Excellence Grants 2025
For decades now, advances in medical research in the USA have helped to find cures for diseases and save lives all around the world. Restrictions on scientific freedom and cuts to the funding for certain research areas are increasingly impacting the work of scientists living and researching in the USA, however. In response to this, the Else Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung (EKFS) has launched the Else Kröner Excellence Grants to enable outstanding scientists (m/f/d) to continue their medical research in Germany.
New funding program to attract US-based medical researchers
Bad Homburg v. d. Höhe, April 22, 2025 – In light of the growing restrictions on independent research and scientific freedom in the USA, the Else Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung (EKFS) is launching a new funding program to offer long-term career opportunities in Germany to outstanding medical researchers from the USA. A total of €10 million are being made available for the program, which will also be continued in the coming years.
9. Else Kröner-Symposium "Translational Immunology – From Target to Therapy"
From May 8 to 9, 2025, the Else Kröner-Symposium "Translational Immunology – From Target to Therapy" will take place in the historic walls of the Juliusspital in Würzburg. This symposium will be organized by the fellows of TWINSIGHT (Else Kröner Research School), funded by EKFS, and with support of the IZKF Würzburg. You can look forward to inspiring scientific presentations and engaging discussions in a relaxed atmosphere.
Interview with Prof. Dr. Anastasia Khvorova – Winner of the Else Kröner Fresenius Prize for Medical Research 2025
Dear Professor Khvorova, congratulations on receiving the Else Kröner Fresenius Prize for Medical Research 2025. RNA-based therapies have made enormous progress in recent years. What kind of research findings were you able to achieve in this field?