Our lab is dedicated to exploring the molecular mechanisms that drive neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, as well as psychiatric disorders. We focus on key processes like mitochondrial dysfunction and RNA modifications, aiming to uncover novel therapeutic targets and develop biomarkers that support early diagnosis and more effective treatments.
At the same time, we are deeply involved in clinical pharmacy, working directly with patients in both community and clinical settings. Our research demonstrates that targeted pharmaceutical care can significantly improve medication safety, adherence, and chronic disease management.
By combining molecular insights with patient-centered approaches, we strive to translate scientific discoveries into real-world impact, improving therapies and care for individuals affected by brain disorders.
To learn more about our work, please visit here.
At the Friedland Research Lab, we are driven by a multidisciplinary approach to understanding complex biological mechanisms that underlie psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. Our research spans from clinical pharmacy and patient-centered interventions to molecular studies of ion channels and RNA modifications. We believe that bridging molecular insights with clinical application is essential to developing better treatments and improving health outcomes.
Our lab investigates how RNA modifications contribute to neurodegenerative processes. We study epitranscriptomic changes such as N1-methyladenosine (m¹A) in mitochondrial transcripts and their impact on energy metabolism and neuronal survival, particularly in the context of Alzheimer’s disease. In parallel, we work to improve RNA analysis methods, ensuring that research in this area remains robust and reproducible. Through this work, we hope to shed light on how subtle molecular changes in RNA can have profound effects on brain health and disease progression — and to identify new biomarkers that can aid in early detection, prognosis, and therapeutic targeting.
Key Methods:
- LC-MS Analysis – in collaboration with the Helm Group
- Nanopore Sequencing – in partnership with the Gerber Group
- Northern Blotting
Our lab is proud to contribute to the RNA Modification and Processing (RmAP) network, working alongside other top-tier groups to advance RNA research. Learn more about RmAP https://www.trr319-rmap.de/.
Our lab also investigates how mitochondrial function and RNA regulation influence brain health across the lifespan. In this context, we aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying pathophysiological processes associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases, with the goal of identifying targeted preventive and therapeutic strategies. We are committed to exploring the strong potential of small molecules and plant-derived compounds that promote neuronal health by modulating these two key processes.
Key Methods:
- Fluorescence-based mitochondrial assays (ATP, membrane potential, ROS)
- Seahorse analysis
- Oxygen electrode measurements
In the Friedland Research Lab, we investigate the molecular mechanisms that underlie psychiatric disorders, with a focus on identifying new pharmacological targets and pathways involved in neuronal function and plasticity. A central theme of our work is the study of cellular signaling mechanisms, including calcium dynamics and ion channel activity, which are crucial for healthy brain function and emotional regulation. One of our key interests is the TRPC6 channel, a calcium-permeable ion channel that plays a significant role in synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection.
Methods:
- Calcium imaging
- Patch-clamp recordings
- Confocal microscopy (spine density)
- Primary hippocampal neurons and brain slices
One of our core areas of focus is improving real-world treatment strategies in psychiatric and metabolic disorders. We design and evaluate innovative clinical interventions that support medication adherence, particularly among patients with mental health disorders. Our studies often involve collaboration across sectors — integrating digital tools, clinical pharmacy, and psychosocial support to strengthen continuity of care.
A key example is our work on PharmBePsych, an innovative clinical research project led by the Friedland Lab that combines in-person and digital pharmaceutical care to improve long-term medication adherence and prevent relapse in patients with mental health conditions. More information about PharmBePsych can be found in the Research Projects section.
Group Leader
To learn more about our work, please visit here.
Scientific Staff
PhD Students
Technical Staff
Secretary´s Office
Led by the Friedland Research Lab, PharmBePsych is a pioneering clinical research project conducted in community pharmacies in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. The project aims to improve long-term adherence to maintenance therapies and prevent relapse in patients with mental health conditions. The goal is to reduce the risk of relapse, the chronic progression of the disease, and increased mortality.
The project follows a cluster-randomized, controlled design with simple blinding. Patients in the intervention group receive intensive pharmaceutical care, while those in the control group receive standard care. For 12 months, the intervention group receives continuous support for their ongoing medication and comprehensive medication management. This also includes an educational program that provides relevant information about their condition and medications.
A distinctive feature of PharmBePsych is its innovative hybrid model. Specially trained community pharmacists use a customer app, as well as telepharmacy, to provide in-person and digital support to patients.
PharmBePsych sets new standards in pharmaceutical care. Pharmacists are established as key partners in healthcare, using their expertise to improve adherence and ensure the safety of medication therapy. Through continuous support, they promote treatment success and strengthen patient care.
Implemented in close collaboration with Universitätsmedizin Mainz and Gedisa mbH, this innovative care model aims to improve the outpatient care for individuals with mental health conditions sustainably and significantly enhance their quality of life in the long term.
Our research focuses on the role of the RNA modification N¹-methyladenosine (m¹A) in neurodegenerative diseases. m¹A can influence mitochondrial gene expression—a process known to be disrupted early in Alzheimer’s disease. Our latest findings reveal a striking correlation between m¹A modifications on mitochondrial ND5 mRNA and mitochondrial dysfunction in the brain.
We are now exploring whether this molecular signature is also detectable in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). If so, this could represent a crucial step toward developing innovative, non-invasive diagnostic tools.
In collaboration with the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at University Medical Center Mainz, we are currently recruiting participants for a pilot study. Our goal is to evaluate m¹A as a blood-based biomarker for early Alzheimer’s detection.
This translational project bridges molecular biology and clinical practice—advancing our understanding of Alzheimer’s and paving the way for new diagnostic strategies.
Our lab is part of the DFG-funded TRR 319: RMaP – RNA Modification and Processing, a collaborative research consortium dedicated to understanding how chemical modifications on RNA influence its processing, stability, and function.
As part of this initiative, we are part of Project A07, focusing on mitochondrial RNA modifications and their role in cellular energy regulation and disease. Through strong collaborations with Prof. Mark Helm in analytical techniques and Prof. Susanne Gerber in bioinformatics, we leverage cutting-edge methods like nanopore sequencing to advance our understanding of the mitochondrial epitranscriptome.
In collaboration with Dr. Willmar Schwabe GmbH, the Friedland Lab, together with Prof. Mark Helm and colleagues at the Institute of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU Mainz), recently completed the “Phyto Innovation Challenge” project investigating the potential of plant-derived compounds to modulate mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease by interacting with RNA regulation.
Given that multiple alterations in mitochondrial function represent key pathological hallmarks of aging and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, the project aimed to systematically evaluate plant extracts. Promising candidates were subsequently analyzed for their effects on RNA regulation to uncover underlying molecular mechanisms.
This successful academic–industry collaboration underscores the value of integrating phytotherapy with RNA and mitochondrial biology to advance innovative therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer’s disease.
Lehre für Studierende der Pharmazie und der Biomedizinischen Chemie
Wir bieten folgende Vorlesungen, Praktika und Seminare an:
- Pharmakologie und Toxikologie:
- Pharmakologie und Toxikologie: Ringvorlesung über 4 Semester (5.-8. Semester)
- Hier werden krankheitsspezifisch die pharmakologischen Wirkmechanismen von Arzneimitteln besprochen.
- Voraussetzungen für die Vorlesung ist ein Grundwissen in Physiologie, Pathophysiologie und Biochemie.
- Pharmakologie und Toxikologie:
- zweiwöchiger Demonstrations-Kurs (6. Semester Pharmazie)
- Hier ist das Ziel Methoden der Pharmakologie und Toxikologie zu erlernen.
- Seminar
- Grundlagen der Pharmakologie
- mündliche Prüfung zum Abschluss des Seminars
- zweiwöchiger Demonstrations-Kurs (6. Semester Pharmazie)
- Pharmakologie und Toxikologie: Ringvorlesung über 4 Semester (5.-8. Semester)
- Klinische Pharmazie:
- Klinische Pharmazie – Pharmazeutische Betreuung (Trainingsapotheke) (6. Semester)
- Klinische Pharmazie & Krankheitslehre (6.-8. Semester)
- Pharmakoepidemiologie & Pharmakoökonomie, Pharmakokinetik (7.-8. Semester)
- Pharmakotherapie (8. Semester)
- Problemorientiertes Lernen an Patientenfällen passend zur Ringvorlesung
- Durch eine Abstimmung der Pharmakologie-Vorlesung und des Pharmakotherapie-Seminars soll die Effizienz beider Veranstaltungen deutlich verbessert werden.
- Wahlpflichtfach für Pharmazeuten
- Bachelor- und Masterarbeiten
Weitere Informationen finden Sie in Jogustine.