Lærke Gasbjerg and Signe Mathiasen awarded NNF Emerging Investigator grants
The Novo Nordisk Foundation's Research Leader Programme has awarded grants to two of our emerging researchers. The grants will help them establish their own research groups and delve into areas of study that hold great potential for advancing our understanding and treatment of mental health disorders and postprandial hypotension.
Signe Mathiasen is assistant professor at the Department of Biomedical Sciences. With a grant amounting to DKK 9.997.040, Signe aims to unravel the mysteries surrounding the adhesion G protein-coupled receptor latrophilin 3 (ADGRL3), a novel receptor target implicated in mental health conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and schizophrenia.
By mapping the dynamic localization of ADGRL3 receptors in cell membranes and studying their interactions with partners both inside and outside the cell, she hopes to shed light on the functioning of this receptor as a signaling unit and identify its key synaptic interaction partners. Such basic understanding can help uncover the potential of ADGRL3 as a novel drug target for new and improved pharmacotherapies in e.g. ADHD.
After spending seven years as a scientist at Columbia University, Signe returned to Denmark in 2020. She will establish her independent research group at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, commencing from 1 April 2024.
The second researcher awarded a grant is Lærke Gasbjerg, also assistant professor at the department. Lærke’s research, supported by a grant amounting to 9.998.511 DKK, focuses on mechanistic and therapeutic investigations of splanchnic blood redistribution. During digestion blood volume increases in the abdominal area to support the absorption of nutrients. However, some individuals experience postprandial hypotension, characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, elevated pulse, and fainting. These invalidating symptoms can severely impact their ability to eat and enjoy meals. Lærke’s research group will employ advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to study blood volume changes in two patient groups. Furthermore, they will explore the underlying mechanisms and evaluate potential treatment options in animal models, with a focus on hormones known to be associated with blood volume changes during eating.
Lærke's research will be conducted collaboratively at the University of Copenhagen and Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen, bringing together experts from multiple disciplines to tackle this pressing issue.
The Novo Nordisk Foundation's Research Leader Programme has been instrumental in fostering scientific excellence and promoting innovative research projects. By granting these exceptional researchers the opportunity to establish their own independent research groups, the foundation continues to drive advancements in biomedical sciences, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare and a better quality of life for individuals worldwide.
The Department of Biomedical Sciences congratulates Signe Mathiasen and Lærke Gasbjerg on their well-deserved grants and eagerly anticipates the interesting and important discoveries that will emerge from their research endeavors.