CBBM Lecture "Dosis facit venenum - the essential trace element Selenium"

by Prof. Dr. Lutz Schomburg,

Institute of Experimental Endocrinology,

Charité Berlin

will take place on December 8, 2015 from 17:15 to 18:15 hours in Lecture Hall H1, Turmgebäude.

Host: Prof. Dr. Henrik Oster
Research Group Chronophysiology
Department of Internal Medicine
University of Lübeck


Abstract

Trace elements are needed by living organisms in very small amounts. Often, they are necessary for very specific reactions and pathways that are essential for proper growth, development and healthy living. Selenium (Se) is a most fascinating example of trace elements as it is needed for the biosynthesis of selenoproteins, some of which have been proven essential for life. Yet, the daily amount needed to optimally support our development and health is a disputed issue. The Se status biomarkers we can determine from blood indicate that Europeans are insufficiently supplied, yet many of us are completely healthy. It is thus aimed to critically discuss whether the biochemical and clinical findings at hand justify supplemental Se intake or not.

CV

Prof. Schomburg studied Biochemistry at Hannover University, completed his PhD thesis at the Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Endocrinology in Hannover, and went for postdoctoral studies to the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, and to the Division of Molecular Internal Medicine, University of Würzburg. In 2001, he joined the Charité-University Medical School Berlin, where he is working as a Professor for Experimental Endocrinology in the Institute for Experimental Endocrinology. His research group mainly addresses topics relating Nutrition and Biochemistry with Endocrinology and widespread endocrine diseases, establishing novel biomarkers, concepts and techniques.