imc research brochure

IMC UnIversIty of ApplIed sCIenCes KreMs

Research

Research generates innovation. And innovation keeps us

a step ahead.

Foreword 4

IMC University of applied sciences Krems 8

High-Quality Research 10

A dependable research partner 12

An international expert platform and a centre for scientific events 13

A multi-award-winning austrian university of applied sciences 14

Department business: Key research topics 16 – 23

Reference projects

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and innovation management

Cultural (garden) heritage as a focal point for sustainable tourism – CultTour

European cyclotourism educational programme – EuBike

Department LiFe sciences: Key research topics 24 – 39

Reference projects

Research Institute for Applied Bioanalytics and Drug Development

Engineering of therapeutic peptides for cancer and regenerative medicine

Development of complex extracorporeal carcinoma models for the identification of personalised cancer therapies

Developing new immunoregulatory peptides and gender-specific organotypic cell models for human sepsis

Biopharm – isolation of bioactive compounds from cyanobacteria

Co-cultivation of microorganisms

Developing a design pipeline for innovative protein-protein interaction inhibitors

Department heaLth sciences: Key research topics 40 – 45

Reference projects

Positron emission tomography (PET) and music therapy pilot study

The right moment – pilot study on the representation of circadian and ultradian rhythms of patients in phase C neurorehabilitation by means

of heart rate variability

Cooperating with IMC Krems 46

Selected project partners 47

Table of ConTenTs

Research generates innovation. And innovation keeps us

a step ahead.

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foreword4

Since its founding, IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems has been widely regarded as one of Austria’s leading, most international universities of applied sciences, with one of the most extensive partnership networks in the education sector. It is a pioneer in many aspects of its core subject areas: business, health and life sciences. Outstanding performances in a number of rankings as well as various accreditations reflect the university’s commitment to quality and strong practical focus in its teaching and research activities. The seven key research topics of the departments Business, Health and Life Sciences are geared towards meeting the needs of business and society.The university concentrates on the following research topics: CSR and in-novation, New world of work, tourismFACTORY, Medical biotechnology, Bioprocess engineering, Intervention, implementation and outcome research, and Stress and regulation research. We focus on application-driven research. Teaching, practice and research are closely interlinked – current economic and societal challenges feed directly into projects in the form of research questions and into the departments’ teaching activities, while research findings are quickly put into practice. Research generates innovation, and innovation keeps us a step ahead and enhances our competitiveness. This is what makes IMC Krems a strong partner for stakeholders from a range of different industries. Adopting inter-disciplinary approaches is a priority, and this enables us to develop optimum solutions for and in collaboration with our partners.

But research also requires vision and investment. By securing external funding and completing a number of large-scale projects, the Department Life Sciences now has access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure and laboratory facilities. The establishment of the Research Institute for Applied Bioanalytics and Drug Development in 2014 saw the creation of an add-itional research location at the Regional Innovation Centre (RIZ) in Krems. This has further strengthened our ties with industry. The equipment procured in the course of research and development (R&D) projects also generates added value for the practically oriented courses on the Medical and Pharma-ceutical Biotechnology bachelor and master degree programmes.

The new research institute and the 39 R&D projects it is currently conducting – which represent a total investment of several million euros – are a further illustration of IMC Krems’ pioneering spirit and visionary approach. Some of our reference projects are described in detail below.

prof. (Fh) mag.eva Werner, hon.-prof.Rector

prof. (Fh) Dr.Karl c. ennsfellnerCEO

mag.ulrike prommerCEO

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"Our investments in research, technology and innovation are geared towards safeguarding quality of life, health and prosperity for generations to come. IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems is a long-standing partner of the Province of Lower Austria, and since it was set up, the university has been instrumental in securing a bright future for our region."

erwin pröllGovernor of Lower Austria

"Research and development are indispensable for maintaining the competitiveness of the Austrian economy. Innovative companies create jobs, especially in the regions. But new developments also play a part in improving our livelihoods. FFG funding and services act as a catalyst by stimulating private research investment, sharing development risk and improving the structure of the Austrian innovation system.Austrian universities and universities of applied sciences make a vital contribution to the Austrian innovation system: scientifi c fi ndings are the “raw materials” for innovation, and a sound educa-tion fosters new generations of researchers and engineers. Several hundred university institutes, such as IMC Krems, participate in projects funded by the FFG each year. Many of these projects are carried out in cooperation with partners from industry."

Dr. henrietta egerth and Dr. Klaus pseinerManaging Directors, Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG)

"Collaboration between research, teaching and day-to-day practice is vital in order to preserve and enhance the high quality of our health system in the long run. IMC Krems is a mainstay of health care in Lower Austria and an important partner of the Lower Austrian Health and Social Fund. It is a place for academic dialogue between researchers, experts, students and practitioners, and a place that stimulates innovation in medical practice, with a strong focus on forward-looking research topics such as the impact of music therapy on health. And at the end of the day, this benefi ts all patients."

mag. elfriede riesingerManaging Director, Lower Austrian Health and Social Fund

"Our long-term collaboration with the Department Life Sciences’ Institute of Applied Bioanalytics and Drug Development at IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems will promote the development of novel technologies for the rapid and reliable testing of unwanted side effects of new drug can-didates in preclinical models and during clinical development. The analytical technologies will meet the strict quality requirements of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), an internationally recognised quality assurance system for laboratory work. The partnership with the Research Institute of Ap-plied Bioanalytics and Drug Development is built on the high standards of both scientifi c expertise and the quality management strategies implemented by the Department Life Sciences."

birgit reipertSenior Director R&D, Research Immunology, Baxalta Austria

"Cooperation between NÖ Landeskliniken-Holding and academic partners such IMC Krems plays an important part in applications-based research projects on various aspects of health care. These relationships promote the build-up of knowledge that enables us to overcome the diverse range of challenges facing the health service and continue providing the people of Lower Austria with effec-tive, high-quality health care."

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VoICes eV. noCh headlIne wIe VoICes/ sTaTemenTs?

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ImC unIVersITY of aPPlIed sCIenCes Krems

state oF-the-art research, a practicaL Focus, an internationaL outLooK anD strong netWorKs

Top-ranked in Austria

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ImC unIVersITY of aPPlIed sCIenCes Krems

VIsIonAs a university with a strong international reputation, we aim to develop and implement innovative and sustainable solutions in our core subject areas.

mIssIonWe are an Austrian university with an international focus. We offer degree programmes with a strong practical ele-ment that are tailored to the needs of business and indus-try. Our programmes meet international higher education standards, ensuring that our students are fully qualifi ed to assume high-level positions in business and society. We constantly integrate our graduates and partners into the university’s ongoing development, resulting in continuous improvements in the quality of teaching and research.

ValuesWe are a learning team. Our culture is built on:

� Commitment � Fairness � Mutual trust � Embracing diversity � Supporting personal advancement � A strong sense of responsibility

state oF-the-art research, a practicaL Focus, an internationaL outLooK anD strong netWorKs

Top-ranked in Austria

9

faCTs and fIgures

182

2014

566

748

159

2012

509

668

117

2008

230

347

45

2002

75

120

16

1998

30

46

1994

2334

2067

1681

726

197

4

15

19

45

FULL-TIME LECTURERS

PART-TIME LECTURERS

TOTAL LECTURERS

STUDENTS

DEVELOPMENT

4

1994

1519 45 16

1998

3046 197

2002

4575120 726

2008

117230347 1681

2012

159509668 2067

2014

182566748 2334

STUDENTSFULLTIME LECTURERS PARTTIME LECTURERSTOTAL LECTURERS

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

Lecturers

300

600

900

1200

1500

1800

2100

2400

Students

67

5

9

63

3

18

2

ORIGIN COUNTRIES OF INCOMING STUDENTS

PARTNER UNIVERSITIES3OUTGOING STUDENTS

146

2014/ 2015INTERNATIONAL

STUDENTS2429

MAY 2015

67

5

9

63

3

18

2

ORIGIN COUNTRIES OF INCOMING STUDENTS

PARTNER UNIVERSITIES

OUTGOING STUDENTS

146

2014/ 2015INTERNATIONAL

INCOMING STUDENTS

163

COUNTRIES17 FROM

113

� Established in 1994 � 40% of study programmes in English � More than 600 students enrolled in transnational

programmes � International faculty and staff, and 113 partner

universities worldwide � Numerous research partners in business and industry � Two locations and a research institute with state-of-the-art

facilities

� Awarded the seal of approval of the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) � Certified according to the ISO 9001:2000 quality

assurance standard � International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and

Hospitality Education (THE-ICE) accreditation for the Tourism and Leisure Management bachelor and master degree programmes � International accreditation seal of German agency ASIIN

for Life Sciences degree programmes

IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems is a private limited company that operates on the basis of a public-private-partner-ship model.

perFormanceIn the past few years, the university has extended its excellent track record in evaluations of higher education institutions. In the CHE ranking, students gave top grades in the overall study situation, study organisation, teacher support and interna-tional orientation categories. The results underline IMC Krems’ position as one of the leading higher education institutions in the German-speaking countries.

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hIgh-QualITY researChIMC University of Applied Sciences Krems carries out applied research in the core subject areas of business, health and life sciences in collaboration with companies and other organisations. The university develops innovative solutions and brings high-potential products and processes to market. Our research-led teaching, application-driven research and groundbreaking expertise benefi t both the economy and society as a whole.

seven innovative Key research topics

research institute For appLieD bioanaLytics anD Drug DeveLopment Founded in 2014, the research institute concentrates on developing potential new treatments, as well as identifying and optimising drugs aimed at cancer, and immune system and blood disorders.

state-oF-the-art LaboratoriesThe Department Life Sciences performs research at two loca-tions, Campus Krems and the town’s Regional Innovation

Centre (RIZ). Both sites are home to cutting-edge laboratories with the very latest research infrastructure. The new Research Institute for Applied Bioanalytics and Drug Development is based at RIZ Krems.

A number of features set the facilities apart: � Advanced cell culture und tissue-engineering laboratories � Instruments for the analysis of biomolecular interactions � Modern bio-optic platforms including confocal microscopy � Molecular modelling and bioinformatics � Bioprocess engineering, bioreactors and fermentation

INTERVENTION, IMPLEMENTATION AND OUTCOME RESEARCHCSR &

INNOVATION

NEW WORLD OF WORK

TOURISMFACTORY

MEDICALBIOTECHNOLOGY

BIOPROCESSENGINEERING

STRESS AND REGULATION RESEARCH

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a dePendable researCh ParTnerstrong internationaL reputationIMC Krems is recognised at home and abroad as a high-profile research partner with a strong reputation. It col-laborates with businesses of all sizes – from SMEs to major companies – as well as tertiary education institutions, public bodies and other organisations. These partners are involved at various stages in the research process – from defining the focus of research questions and projects to providing the relevant stakeholders with information on research findings. The university carries out one-off projects for companies, as well as multi-year research programmes subsidised by the Province of Lower Austria, the Austrian federal government and the EU.

interDiscipLinary approachThe departments Business, Health and Life Sciences carry out joint, interdisciplinary research. Their projects and find-ings generate economic, medical, pharmaceutical, technical and social benefits. These research activities also give rise to pioneering innovations that prompt far-reaching changes in business and the wider community.

practice-Driven research anD research-LeD teachingThe university works closely with businesses and organisa-tions to ensure that knowledge from the various fields of research feeds into day-to-day practice, and vice versa. Our researchers always aim to integrate research findings into

their teaching. Partnerships with research institutes and business partners in Austria and abroad, coupled with our lecturers’ contacts with decision-makers and research groups at other universities enables IMC Krems to attract teaching staff for specialised courses, and also ensures that course contents are constantly up to date.

IMC Krems students are closely involved in application-driven research projects, and can write their bachelor or master thesis on a practical, topical subject related to the university’s key research areas. Research-led teaching helps students to develop the skills required to handle day-to-day professional challenges. Our effectiveness in equipping students for their careers is reflected in outstanding levels of student satisfac-tion and strong demand from our research and business partners for IMC Krems graduates.

internationaL netWorKWith 113 partner institutions worldwide, IMC Krems is widely regarded as one of Austria’s most international uni-versities of applied sciences. This cross-border focus and our expertise have a positive impact on the university’s research activities. Increasing numbers of international projects are being launched, and the findings as well as new trends and insights are published in the form of peer-reviewed academic papers and books, and also presented to the international research community and the general public at conferences and seminars. We direct our efforts towards steadily building up an international network of experts.

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an InTernaTIonal exPerT PlaTform and a CenTre for sCIenTIfIC eVenTs

Department heaLth sciencesmozart & science (8-10 November 2012): fourth international music therapy symposium; around 200 participants; subject: A meeting of cultures

14th World congress of music therapy (7-12 July 2014): around 1,400 delegates; subject: Culture and diversity in music therapy practice, research and education; organised in collaboration with the World Federation of Music Therapy (WFMT)

Department LiFe sciencesinternational Life science meeting: held annually since 2002, with high-profi le speakers from the worlds of medicine, pharmacy and biotechnology, including Nobel prize winner Professor Ivar Giaever, as well as successful biotech alumni

Department businessiscontour – international student conference in tourism research: held annually since 2013 in cooperation with Salzburg University of Applied Sciences; takes place alternately in Krems and Salzburg

for sCIenTIfIC eVenTsStrong international reputation

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Claudia Krösbacher

a mulTI-award-wInnIng ausTrIan unIVersITY of aPPlIed sCIenCes

honorary prize of the Federal ministry for education, science and cultureGernot KleinbergerGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Role of toll-like receptors in the pathogenesis of brain and lung complications in malaria infection (2006)

Federal ministry of science and researchhonorary prize Eva AltingerGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyIdentifi cation of the casein kinase 1 involved in the regulation of the amyloid-beta peptide in Alzheimer’s disease (2009)

Tanja Stoifl Graduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyAdsorbent materials for extracorporeal blood purifi cation in liver failure (2011)

Barbara MaurerGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyFunktionelle Charakterisierung der zellulären Rezeptoren von insulinotropen Peptiden (Functional characterisation of cellular receptors of insulinotropic peptides) (2012)

Federal ministry of science and research science2business award IMC Krems (2010) for cooperation partner Sealife Pharm

honorary prize of the Federal ministry science and research and ascina awardEva FastGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyWolbachia enhance drosophila stem cell proliferation and tar-get the germline stem cell niche (2011)

Federal ministry of science and research and Federal ministry of agriculture, Forestry, environment and Water management, austrian sustainability award2nd place For the Management degree programme in the Curriculum and Instruction category

biotec area Krems and technopol Krems, Life science Krems cooperation award 1st placeBirgit SchützGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyIn situ characterization of human bone marrow niche cells (2012)

biotec area Krems, Krems cooperation research award 1st place Sonja Rittchen Graduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyThe effect of NG2-targeted LIF/PLGA nanoparticles on oligo-dendrocyte precursor cells and remyelination (2014)

In the past few years, IMC Krems and its students, lecturers and alumni have secured no less than 57 different awards and prizes.

seLecteD aWarDs

Eva Fast

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2nd place Marie-Therese HaiderGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyModifying the osteoblastic niche with zoledronic acid in vivo – potential implications for breast cancer bone metastasis (2014)

3rd placeKatharina ZaunerGraduate, Medical and Pharmaceutical BiotechnologyGene expression analysis in dopaminergic neurons derived from Parkinson’s patients (2014)

Innovation prize garden tourism Lower austriaProf. (FH) Mag. Claudia Bauer-Krösbacher, PhD and Mag. Stephanie Tischler (2014)

honorary science award of the Deutscher hospiz und palliativ verband (german hospice and palliative care association)Mag. Dr. Claudia Wenzel,Lecturer, Department Health Sciences Heil sterben – Zur Bedeutung alternativer Ansätze für eine ganzheitliche Begleitung Sterbender in Hospizarbeit und Palliative Care (Painless death – the importance of alternative approaches for holistic support of the terminally ill in hospice work and palliative care) (2012)

austrian society of applied research in tourism and Leisure management (ÖgaF), tourism research awardvienna tourist board award for cities and Destinations1st placeJulia LotterGraduate, Tourism and Leisure ManagementEmotional aspects of the destination choice behaviour – a perspective of young Austrians travelling to London (2015)

tourismusbank award for the tourist industry, 1st place Judith Obermair Graduate, Tourism and Leisure ManagementThe infl uence of the down-aging effect on present and fu-ture tourism products (2015)

tourissimus 1st placeIMC University of Applied Sciences Krems named best partici-pating educational institution in Austria (2015)

Tanja Stoifl Claudia Wenzel

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deParTmenT busIness: KeY researCh ToPICs

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corporate sociaL responsibiLity anD innovation Sustainability and social responsibility are rising up the agenda at Austrian companies. Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is about companies making voluntary commitments to sustainable development that go beyond compliance with legal requirements. CSR encompasses more than just environ mental issues and takes account of employees and other stakeholders in equal measure. Work on the key research topic of CSR and innovation focuses in particular on investigating the impact of a commitment to social responsibility by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – especially family businesses – on the various phases of the innov-ation process, and on developing suitable instruments, tools and recommen dations to support these companies.

neW WorLD oF WorK A paradigm shift is under way in the world of work as a result of technical innovation. Working methods, environments and models at companies of all shapes and sizes are changing. The New world of work key research topic examines these developments and their effects on small, medium-sized and large companies. Research centres on measuring the impact of transformations in the new world of work on companies and on the people working in them, using tools to evaluate success. This enables businesses to calcu-late the return on investment from changes that are implemented.

tourismFactorytourismFACTORY aims to be a think tank for the tourism sector. It combines academic research with practical implementation of tourism projects. tourismFACTORY’s broad spectrum of research activities ranges from participation in EU-wide research projects carried out by international consortia (e.g. EuBike, InRuTou and CultTour), with findings published in scientific journals, to devel-opment of prototype tourism ser vice chains in collaboration with businesses and destinations. Applied research lays the founda-tions for successful projects that are partnered and supported by tourismFACTORY.

All three key topics achieve an optimal combination of research, practice and teaching by fully involving all stakeholders. By estab-lishing a network of experts we are able to constantly enhance the sharing of knowledge.

contact:prof.(Fh) Dr. georg christian steckenbauer, mscHead of Research, Department Business

Professor, Department Business

T: +43 2732 802 374E: [email protected]

prof.(Fh) Di Wolfgang vrzal, mbaHead of Department Business


deParTmenT busIness: KeY researCh ToPICs

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bacKgrounDCSR can play a major role in companies’ competitiveness. As a strategic and management approach, CSR can help businesses to exploit the opportunities for innovation pre-sented by the social and environmental challenges of today and tomorrow. However, in practice CSR activities are still rarely – or only to a limited degree – linked with innovation management.

research aimsThe project aims to illustrate the effects of CSR on the various phases of the innovation cycle, and to develop suit-able instruments and tools for SMEs and family businesses. This will generate scientifically-based recommendations for ways in which SMEs and family businesses can optimise or implement innovation processes, on the basis of their CSR strategy and goals.Website: www.csrundinnovation.at (German only)The project findings are mainly intended to enable Austrian companies in particular to achieve innovation advantages by means of stakeholder involvement. The goal is to develop product and service innovations, and promote innovative, resource-efficient business models geared towards entering new markets and boosting competitiveness.Another research focus is the evaluation of CSR-driven innovations, which will involve developing and adapting CSR-based management control tools.

research DesignExpert interviews were conducted and company workshops were organised to identify the current challenges faced by businesses and highlight examples of good practice.Ten Austrian SMEs that had won numerous awards for their innovative CSR approaches were selected as case studies. When selecting the companies, the aim was to achieve a balance in terms of sector, size and geographic location. Information was gathered from semi-structured personal interviews and secondary data. Multiple case study research

methods from Yin (2009) were supplemented by focus groups with business owners.A model for developing sustainable innovations, developed to take account of the special characteristics of SMEs, was then implemented and evaluated at two companies.The research findings continue to be presented at confer-ences in Austria and abroad.

FunDingThe project is funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency under the fourth call for the “Aufbau” line of the COIN – Cooperation & Innovation programme (programme owners/sponsors: Austrian Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology; Federal Ministry of Science, Research and Economy).

presentations in austria anD abroaDInitial findings were presented at the following international conferences: � International Society for Professional Innovation

Management (ISPIM) Conference, Dublin, June 2014 � Annual International Sustainable Development Research

Conference, Trondheim, June 2014 � ICSB World Conference on Entrepreneurship, Dublin,

June 2014 � ISPIM Asia-Pacific Innovation Forum, Singapore,

December 2014 � Fourth research forum on small and medium-sized enter-

prises, Chur University of Applied Sciences, February 2015 � Ninth research forum for Austria’s Universities of Applied

Sciences, Hagenberg, April 2015 � Expert meeting on measurement and management of CSR

and sustainability, IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems, May 2015 � 5th World Sustainability Forum, Basel, September 2015

statusOngoing

contact: prof.(Fh) mag. Dr. reinhard altenburgerProfessor, Department Business


CorPoraTe soCIal resPonsIbIlITY (Csr) and InnoVaTIon managemenT

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contact: prof.(Fh) mag. claudia bauer-Krösbacher, phDProfessor, Department Business


CulTural (garden) herITage as a foCal PoInT for susTaInable TourIsm – CulTTourbacKgrounDDemand is growing for cultural tourism, a segment thatstands out for its enormous variety of attractions on offer.However, very little research has been conducted in many areas of cultural tourism, including garden tourism. Parks, gardens and other landscaped, green open spaces are now seen as important cultural attractions for tourist destinations, and are increasingly being developed to cater for tourists. Such locations also provide leisure opportunities for the local population, and can make a contribution to an area’s cultural identity and sustainable regional development.Project website: www.culttour.eu

research aimsThe project was a response to the growing need for profes-sional garden tourism attractions in Central and Eastern Europe, and for suitable employees trained to international standards. It aimed to develop strategies for maintaining and revitalising the cultural heritage of Europe’s parks and gardens. These strategies were to be rooted in the principles of sustainability and support for the local economy, in order to ensure successful implementation. In addition, workshops were held with local tourism stakeholders, and a concept was drawn up for a hotel management school.

research DesignIn the course of the three-year project, strategies and con-cepts were developed for preserving public and privately owned parks, gardens and other open spaces, and for their use in tourism. Feasibility studies were also conducted. A strategic management tool – the CultTour analysis tool – was developed to support parks and gardens managers in making their sites attractive to visitors and securing long-term income from tourism, while also taking account of environmental, economic and sociocultural sustainability.

research partnersMunicipality of Avrig, Astra National Museum Complex, Samuel von Brukenthal Foundation, University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences Vienna, Veliko Tarnovo Municipality, Municipality of Alexandroupolis, Apulia Re-gional Department for Cultural Heritage, Berlin University of Technology

FunDingThe project was funded by the South East Europe Trans-national Cooperation Programme and co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) (2007-2013).

statusCompleted

outcomes � Generic process model for revitalising parks and gardens � CultTour analysis tool with guidelines and management

recommendations for parks and gardens � Feasibility studies and utilisation concepts for the four

pilot regions � Workshops on cultural tourism, sustainability and historic

building conservation in the four pilot regions � Online university course in Garden Heritage and

Conservation � Development of "garden routes" in the four pilot regions � Concept for a hotel management school and a business

plan for the Municipality of Avrig

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CulTural (garden) herITage as a foCal PoInT for susTaInable TourIsm – CulTTour

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euroPean CYCloTourIsm eduCaTIonal Programme – eubIKebacKgrounDBicycle touring is a good example of sustainable tourism and offers substantial potential for regional economic develop-ment. This form of tourism is enjoying increasing popularity but is not analysed in Eurostat’s tourism statistics, or in other general domestic or international tourism statistics. Fre-quently, tourism businesses, organisations and destinations lack the specific know-how required to professionally inte-grate the needs and the expertise of cycling associations and cyclists into their product development. Many local authori-ties are attempting to promote areas with cycling routes. Project website: www.eubike.bike

research aimsThe objective of the project is to create an innovative model for the development of bicycle touring in pilot regions in Eur-ope, with the involvement of individual tourists and cycling associations; to identify local provision and the potential for bicycle touring; to test a range of ICT tools, and to prepare a handbook for their use. The findings are to be presented at a conference that will round off the project.

research DesignEuBike will support innovative training and skills develop-ment by adapting ICT tools to the needs of the various target groups (such as destination management organisa-tions, hotels, tourism companies and cycling associations), with a view to promoting sustainable cyclotourism. Research will focus on the following three components: knowledge

(developing tourism products), abilities (management and marketing skills) and approach (entrepreneurial spirit and self-promotion).ICT elements comprise an “eDucational Box”, an e-marketing platform and a smartphone app. The informal learning model will enable stakeholders to share knowledge and experiences at local and regional level, strengthening the role played by consumers as evaluators and multipliers. This will facilitate the development of innovative and collabora-tive solutions and offerings, as well as the formation of new networks between tourism providers and cycling associations at local, regional and international level.

research partnersSuperficie 8 (Italy), La Tana Libera Tutti/Le Mat (Italy), Bournemouth University Higher Education Corporation (UK), Ecological Tourism in Europe (Germany), SEED (Switzerland), ZOI (Switzerland)

FunDingThe project is funded by the European Commission’s Lifelong Learning Programme (centralised actions).

status Ongoing

contact: prof.(Fh) mag. Walter grasslProgramme Director, Tourism and Leisure Management bachelor programme


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deParTmenT lIfe sCIenCes: KeY researCh ToPICs

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meDicaL biotechnoLogy anD bioprocess engineering The Department Life Sciences acts as an international academic competence centre of interdisciplinary education and research and seeks to facilitate communication and interaction among a wide range of applied bio-medical research areas including cancer, immunological disorders, toxicology, drug discovery and advanced bioprocess technologies. The interdisciplinary team is optimally positioned to move rapidly from disease modelling to the identifi cation and development of drugs and lead compounds.

In the last decade, we have developed four R&D core platforms with cutting-edge infrastructure and sustainable scientifi c expert-ise and know-how:

� Drug Discovery and Development � Bioanalytics � Personalised Medicine and Diagnostics � Bioprocess-Technology and Production of Biopharmaceuticals

Moreover, we have established an international scientifi c network including universities, research institutes, small and medium-sized enterprises and global pharmaceutical players.

We have implemented quality management strategies (GxP) to meet the requirements of our industrial partners and promote an optimal level of translation of research into business. The R&D platforms are incubators for future scientifi c productivity and are likely to stimulate the launch of biotech start-ups in the region.

It is our mission to bring cutting-edge research to our students in a very personal and authentic manner. Relevant R&D topics are integrated into lectures and practical training on bachelor and master curricula. The research activities are instrumental for high quality education and for preparing the next generation of young scientists for careers in industry and academia.

contact:prof.(Fh) priv.Doz. mag. Dr. andreas egerHead of Research Unit, Department Life Sciences

Head of Research Institute of Applied Bioanalytics

and Drug Development

Professor, Department Life Sciences T: +43 2732 802 369E: [email protected]

prof.(Fh) mag. Dr. harald hundsbergerVice Rector

Head of Department Life Sciences


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bacKgrounDThe pharmaceutical industry is currently outsourcing many areas of research to academic institutions. This trend has opened up new opportunities and fields of activity in translational and applied biomedical research and development. Collaboration with industry will foster the establishment of sustainable scientific communication networks, databases, infrastructure and novel innovative technologies. The recently established research institute therefore serves as an important incubator for emerging technologies at the Technopol Area Krems in Lower Austria. The research institute focuses on identifying bioactive substances and biomolecules, their pharmaceutical optimisation, and the preclinical and clinical monitoring of their therapeutic efficacy and adverse side effects. New drugs must meet safety requirements imposed by regulatory authorities such as the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As a result, identifying adverse side effects that are detrimental to health are critical issues within the scope of our research portfolio.

research aimsThe IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems and Baxalta Austria have formed a long-standing partnership to drive forward the development of state-of-the-art technologies and methods for testing drugs and their safety in preclinical and clinical studies. These technologies must meet the highest quality standards of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), an internationally recognised quality assurance system for laboratory work.

research DesignOur current projects primarily deal with detection methods that help to determine the efficacy and safety of new drugs. One example is the development of validated methods and tests to identify, describe and quantify interactions of drugs with the immune system. This includes determining whether patients develop antibodies against a drug – see Figure 1, anti-drug antibodies (ADA) – or whether changes occur in other immune system parameters, such as the release of inflammatory cytokines or activation of the

1 2 3

therapeutic drug

specific ADA

detection antibody

Therapeutic drug coated on a micro-titer plate1

Incubation of patient serum – specific ADA bind to the therapeutic drug

2

Detection of bound ADA with an enzyme-labelled detection antibody; the enzyme converts a substrate into a quantifiable colour reaction

3

Figure 1: Detection of antibody reactions against new drugs

elIsa (enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay) for the detection of specific anti-drug antibodies (ADA)

researCh InsTITuTe for aPPlIed bIoanalYTICs and drug deVeloPmenT

26

complement system. Each individual drug or therapeutic agent requires the development of a customised set of test methods. All methods are validated according to rigorous quality criteria and must fully comply with GLP guidelines. This includes quality assurance directives for the documenta-tion of experimental data and reporting to regulatory authorities.

research partnerBaxalta Austria

FunDingContract research

status: Ongoing

1 2 3

therapeutic drug

specific ADA

detection antibody



2


3

1 2 3

therapeutic drug

specific ADA

detection antibody



2


3

contact: prof.(Fh) priv.Doz. mag. Dr. andreas egerHead of Research Unit, Department Life Sciences / Head of Research Institute of Applied Bioanalytics

and Drug Development / Professor, Department Life Sciences

T: +43 2732 802 369 E: [email protected]

27

engIneerIng of TheraPeuTIC PePTIdes for CanCer and regeneraTIVe medICInebacKgrounDProteins and peptides are key molecules in all biological processes. Their unique chemical properties make them particularly well suited for use as therapeutic agents. They have high biological activity and specificity with comparably few toxic side effects, and can be used to produce a range of highly diversified compounds that are not subject to intellectual property restrictions. The market for synthetic therapeutic peptides is growing steadily, making it an increasingly attractive area for pharmaceutical companies.

research aimsIn this project we aim to improve and extend our existing peptide drug discovery platform in close cooperation with Kamil Önder of the Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg. The research project’s specific focus is the development of peptides that modulate the activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). In many cancers the EGFR signal-ling pathway is fundamental to the proliferation, survival, angiogenesis and metastasis of cancer cells. In addition peptide-mediated activation of the EGFR pathway might be

beneficial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.This project will foster the development of sustainable and cost-effective technologies for biopharmaceutical drug dis-covery, therapeutic apheresis, toxin neutralisation and tissue engineering. These areas are key fields of research for many biotech companies. The project will make an important con-tribution to the establishment of a local high-tech cluster for applied medical biotechnology, which in turn will support the launch of new start-ups in the region in the near future.

research DesignThis project combines rational design and experimental, high-throughput screening methods for therapeutic peptide development. The rational approach incorporates computer-assisted drug design methods (molecular modelling) to substantially minimise development costs, resources require-ments and experimental work load. The high-throughput combinatorial screening involves yeast two-hybrid and phage display technologies. Both of these technologies have been optimised for the identification of peptide ligands. In the last few years our partner has developed a large number of

HIT Identification Lead Identificationand Optimization

Peptidomimetics

Rational Approach:Molecular Modeling

In Vitro Evolution:

Combinatorial and Iterative Rounds of Focused Screening, Peptide Chemical Modification,Molecular Modeling, and Biological Testing

Low Molecular Weight Drug Molecules (NCEs):

Medicinal Chemistry, Molecular Modeling and Biological Testing

NBE/NCE Drug Candidates In Vivo Models

Combinatorial Screening:

HTS-Yeast 2-Hybrid: Peptide Prey Libraries cDNA Prey Libraries

Optional: Phage Display

ENGINEERING OF THERAPEUTIC PEPTIDESThe different phases of the drug development process includingcore technologies and in vitro evolution for lead optimisation.

28

libraries (peptide, cDNA and full genome libraries, ORFeom) which enable hit candidates to be rapidly identified. Using the latest recombinant DNA technologies and aided by molecular modelling, high-affinity lead peptides are gener-ated in an iterative process known as in vitro evolution. As has been shown in recent years, the integration of experi-mental methods and computer-assisted modelling generates synergies and increases the chances of successful drug development.

research partnerPriv.Doz. Dr. Kamil Önder, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg

FunDingThe project is funded by Niederösterreichische Forschungs- und Bildungsges.m.b.H. (NFB) and is part of their Life Science Call 2013 programme.

statusOngoing

HIT Identification Lead Identificationand Optimization

Peptidomimetics

Rational Approach:Molecular Modeling

In Vitro Evolution:

Combinatorial and Iterative Rounds of Focused Screening, Peptide Chemical Modification,Molecular Modeling, and Biological Testing

Low Molecular Weight Drug Molecules (NCEs):

Medicinal Chemistry, Molecular Modeling and Biological Testing

NBE/NCE Drug Candidates In Vivo Models

Combinatorial Screening:

HTS-Yeast 2-Hybrid: Peptide Prey Libraries cDNA Prey Libraries

Optional: Phage Display

ENGINEERING OF THERAPEUTIC PEPTIDESThe different phases of the drug development process includingcore technologies and in vitro evolution for lead optimisation.




29

bacKgrounDIntensive research into the molecular causes of cancer has led to the development of a range of innovative and tar-geted therapies which are used to selectively inactivate the molecular mechanisms responsible for tumour progression and the growth of cancer cells. These therapies can inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and induce programmed cell death (apoptosis). They are not effective in all cancer patients due to the genetic heterogeneity of tumours. Personalised oncology aims to establish a direct link between tumour cell genotypes and sensitivity to bioactive substances, so that the patient first and foremost receives the targeted therapy with the maximum clinical benefit. The project is being carried out in close collaboration with the Lower Austrian university hos-pitals in Krems and Tulln operated by Niederösterreichische Landeskliniken Holding.

research aimsIn the current project an experimental approach is being developed to complement diagnostic biomarker studies. We plan to develop organotypic cancer models that enable the direct testing of the clinical efficacy of cancer therapies in cell and tissue cultures (in vitro). A large number of potential cancer therapies, which are often combinations of targeted drugs and conventional chemotherapeutic agents, could be quickly tested for their clinical efficacy on a personalised basis.

research DesignNew types of extracorporeal – in other words, performed outside the body – and patient-specific experimental tests of cancer therapies are being intensively investigated around the world. However, the technologies and materials are still at a very early stage of development. This project, devised at the IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems, is aimed at

the development of innovative tissue and cell culture technol-ogies, which can be used to preserve the complex anatomy and physiology of a tumour for prolonged periods of time in cell culture. Part of the tumour tissue obtained after resec-tion is sliced into microscopic fragments using microtome or vibratome technologies. Special culture techniques are then employed to preserve the original biological features of the tissue in culture. Alternatively we isolate primary cancer and stroma cells from the tumour and generate customised organotypic co-cultures to study paracrine cell communica-tion on the molecular level. The contribution of the tumour stroma (the cells and connective tissue surrounding the cancer cells) to the effectiveness of cancer therapies can be investigated using these new cancer models. As has been shown in recent years, the composition of the tumour stroma can significantly influence the aggressiveness of cancer cells and consequently the cancer therapy. Together with tissue- and cell-based test methods that are being developed in parallel, the effect of the drug on the tumour and stroma cells can be accurately analysed and quantified.

research partnerThe university hospitals in Krems and Tulln, operated by Niederösterreichische Landeskliniken Holding.

FunDingThe project is funded by Niederösterreichischen Forschungs- und Bildungsges.m.b.H. (NFB) through its Life Science Call 2011 programme.

statusOngoing




deVeloPmenT of ComPlex exTraCorPoreal CarCInoma models for The IdenTIfICaTIon of PersonalIsed CanCer TheraPIes

30

Different organotypic lung cancer models embedded in natural extracellular matrices. The miniaturised tumours consist of lung carcinoma cells that were engineered to form 3-dimensional cultures in vitro. The microtumorsrepresent ideal tools to study drug efficacy, genotype-drug response relationships and oncogene addiction. Scale bar: 200µm.

Complex organotypic and multicellular cancer models. Lung cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) were co-embedded in natural extracellular matrices. The cells were visualised by interference modulation contrast (top panel), immunofluorescence microscopy using antibodies against beta-catenin (green, cancer cells) and vimentin (red, CAFs) (middle panel). On the other hand cells were labeled by ectopic expres-sion of green fluorescent protein (EGFP, green, cancer cells) and cyan fluorescent protein (mCFP, blue, CAFs) (bottom panel). Note that in the co-cultures the cellular crosstalk between cancer cells and surrounding CAFs induced cancer cell invasion and micro-tu-mour dissemination. The complex multicellular models can accurately predict clinical drug efficacy. Scale bar: 200µm.

organoid

organoid

co-culture

co-culture

co-culture

Dnaß-cateninvimentin

Dnaß-catenin

cancer cells (egFp)Fibroplasts (mcFp)

organoid

cancer cells (egFp)

31

contact: mag. Dr. elisabeth hofmann Project Manager, Department Life Sciences


deVeloPIng new ImmunoregulaTorY PePTIdes and gender-sPeCIfIC organoTYPIC Cell models for human sePsIs bacKgrounDSepsis is one of the most frequent causes of death world-wide, including in Austria and Germany. Depending on the stage of the illness, between 25% and 60% of patients die despite receiving the maximum available treatment. In cases of sepsis, the human immune system produces a hyperinflammatory response to an infection that has entered the blood stream, and this overreaction can lead to cardiovascular failure. This hyperinflammation is followed by immunosuppression – an attempt initiated by the immune system itself to counter this overreaction. Due to the reduced attentiveness of the immune system, many patients die from serious secondary infections during this phase. Owing to the complex progression of the disease, available sepsis therapies focus predominantly on tackling symptoms and are unfortu-nately ineffective in many cases.

research aimsPeptides that modulate immune responses are currently regarded as promising new drug candidates for the treat-ment of sepsis. In this project we propose to develop and test new peptides that neutralise TRAIL/TNFSF10, one of the key immune regulators. Recent animal studies have suggested that inactivation of TRAIL/TNFSF10 is likely to reduce mor-bidity and mortality among patients suffering from sepsis. In addition, a gender- and cell-culture-based model for human sepsis will be created, meaning that gender-specific differ-ences (e. g. hormone status) can be taken into account when developing and validating potential new sepsis therapies.

research Design Three approaches to the development of therapeutic peptides have been adopted in this project: two screening methods – phage display and yeast two-hybrid screening – and one rational approach under which peptides are designed on the basis of known crystal structures. For the cell-based sepsis model, mononuclear cells from peripheral blood are isolated, followed by an examination of their reac-tion to bacterial substances. Primary and tissue-specific cells will be cultivated and analysed in order to simulate organ damage. The question of gender-specific differences will be addressed by examining the influence of hormones on the different immune responses.

research partnerPriv.-Doz. Dr. Kamil Önder, Procomcure Biotech GmbH

FunDingThe project is funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency under the first call for FEMtech research projects in 2011 (programme owner/sponsor: Austrian Ministry for Transport, Innovation and Technology).

statusOngoing

32

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs, blue circles) from female and male donors are stimulated with lipo-polysaccharide (LPS), a cell wall component of Gram-negative bacteria.

The supernatants of the activated immune cells containing soluble inflammatory mediators (stars) are transferred to the epithelial cell monolayers (lung, colon, kidney).

Macrophages are differentiated from male and female PBMCs. Epithelial monolayers (lung, colon, kidney) are co-cultivated with the macrophages (flat, blue ovals). Together they are stimulated with LPS.

Undifferentiated THP-1 monocytic cell line PMA-differentiated THP-1 macrophage-like cells (PMA: phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate)

Cells of the innate immune system

Mimicking sepsis-mediated tissue destruction in vitro

a

b

c

33

bacKgrounDThe pharmaceutical industry is increasingly focusing its atten-tion on the wide variety of natural substances developed in the form of secondary metabolites in microorganisms. Marine algae in particular contain a significant, untapped resource in the shape of chemical structures with the potential to play a major part in the development of innovative medications.

research aims As part of a European Union-funded project, scientists from IMC University of Applied Sciences Krems and the Czech Academy of Sciences in Trebon, South Bohemia, examined potential applications of constituents of blue-green algae in medical research on the treatment of chronic inflammations and cancer.

research Design The project involved purification of secondary metabolites from cyanobacteria using state-of-the-art chromatography processes and characterisation by means of mass spectro-metry. The different fractions were then examined using human cell-culture models to identify their impact on inflam-mation processes and on cancer.

FunDingThe project was co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund.

statusCompleted

FinDingsThe collaboration with our partners on the Biopharm project led to the development of modern methods for the isolation and biological characterisation of secondary metabolites from blue-green algae. A network of lasting relationships between Trebon and Krems was established and five peer-reviewed scientific articles were published. The results of the project were also presented at different international conferences (including in Finland and at the Life Science Meeting in Krems). The research team submitted the methodology for consideration for the Lower Austrian Innovation Award and received a certificate of recognition. The newly developed method has also been incorporated into courses on the Med-ical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology degree programmes.

contact: prof.(Fh) mag. Dr. harald hundsbergerVice Rector / Head of Department Life Sciences

Programme Director, Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology


bIoPharm – IsolaTIon of bIoaCTIVe ComPounds from CYanobaCTerIa

34

control htnF 0.1ng/ml

substance a 10µg/ml + htnF 0.1ng/ml

nFkb inhibitor (100µm) + htnF 0.1ng/ml

Inhibition of the pro-inflammatory transcriptional regulator nuclear factor kappa B (NFkB) by anti-inflam-matory substancesLocalisation of NFkB in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. NFkB (green) and actin filaments (red) were visualised using immunofluorescence microscopy. The nucleus (blue) was labelled with DNA intercalating dyes (DAPI). NFkB resided in the cytosol In untreated control cells (upper left panel). Upon stimulation of the cells with human tumour necrosis factor (hTNF), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, NFkB was translocated into the nucleus (upper right panel). Treatment of the cells with an established NFkB inhibitor prevented hTNF-induced nuclear translocation and activation of NFkB (bottom left panel). Defined cyanobacteria extracts exhibited similar anti-inflammatory properties and interfered with NFkB activation (bottom right panel).

Cultivation of cyanobacteriaOur partners in Trebon cultivated the cyanobacteria in glass test tubes. Dense cultures were lysed and secondary me-tabolites isolated using chromatographic methods.

Source: Czech Academy of Sciences in Trebon, South Bohemia35

Co-cultivation of two different microorganisms in an Eppendorf New Brunswick BF 510 bioreactor under controlled conditions after the preparation of both organisms as monocultures. The inoculation is carried out under aseptic conditions providing a defined ratio of both organisms.

Co-CulTIVaTIon of mICroorganIsmsbacKgrounDFermentation is an increasingly important area of the pharmaceutical industry. Until now, academic research and industry have focused mainly on monocultures. However, it has been observed that many microorganisms only realise their full biochemical potential in tandem with others. As a result, co-cultivation has become a key pharmaceutical research topic in the field of biotechnology.

Working in cooperation with a partner from the Sultan Qaboos University in Oman, we identified a number of organisms with strong potential for use in areas such as production of active ingredients for pharmaceuticals, as well as activities that impact the environment, including oil production.

Research in this area concentrates on identifying potential co-cultures and establishing a fermentation process that harnesses the products and capabilities of microbial commu-nities for drug discovery and industrial applications.

research aimsThe project represented an initial feasibility study of whether it is possible to identify conditions under which two selected microorganisms can grow separately from one another, and also of whether a stable co-culture can subsequently be established. The co-cultures were then analysed in terms of their ability to produce new substances.

research DesignIn the course of this project, possible growth media for monoseptic cultivation were tested using a multi-factor experimental design. The media that promote the growth of both organisms separately were then selected, and used as media for co-cultivation. The inoculation ratios were chosen and the stability of the co-cultures examined on the basis of the observed growth rates of both microorganisms in the monoseptic cultures. The cultures were then classified as growth-inducing, neutral or growth-inhibiting. The detailed analysis of the metabolome of the various co-cultures will be

36

carried out in follow-up projects. These studies will focus on examining the molecular make-up of the monocultures and co-cultures using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS).

research partnersSeaLife Pharma (Tulln), Sultan Qaboos University (Oman)

FunDingThe project was funded by the Province of Lower Austria and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

statusCompleted

FinDingsThe project forms the basis for a more comprehensive col-laboration with national (University of Natural Resources and

Life Sciences, Vienna) and international partners (Slovak Uni-versity of Technology in Bratislava and Sultan Qaboos Univer-sity), which in the long term should result in the identification of novel bioactive molecules and environmental technologies.

In this project co-cultures were developed between Halo-monas gomseomensis und Dunaliella salina. Together, these organisms are able to grow without an additional carbon (C) source and in minimal medium, and to break down mineral oil residues. The minimal medium was defined, as were the appropriate parameters for fermentation in a bioreactor. This is a promising starting point for the follow-up projects outlined above.

contact: prof.(Fh) Di Dominik schildProfessor, Department Life Sciences


European UnionEuropean Regional Development Fund

European UnionEuropean Regional Development Fund

37

contact: Dr. christian KleinProfessor, Department Life Sciences


bacKgrounDThe functioning of living organisms is to a large extent dependent on the interplay between the biomolecules they are composed of. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are a basic mechanism that regulates this interplay. Consequently, in the past few years the search for active compounds that have a therapeutic influence on protein-protein interactions has been intensified. In most cases these compounds are inhibitors.

research aimsThe aim is to use a bacterial enzyme system in order to develop a new prototypical work flow for the generation of hit structures for the inhibition of PPIs. Inhibitor peptides are generated and their binding conformations subsequently de-termined on the basis of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies. Finally, the NMR conformations of the peptides are used to identify potential small molecule inhibitors (hits) by means of molecular modelling. In the best case scenario, the project will identify antibiotic substances, as well as arriving at a prototypical work flow for generating PPI inhibitors.

research DesignOur multi-disciplinary approach is based on three key technologies:

(1) The ORFormer technology patented by our corporate partner generates peptides that inhibit protein-protein inter-actions; the peptides are produced by means of directed in vitro evolution.

(2) NMR methods deliver atomic-level structural restrictions and dynamic parameters for interaction-related, receptor-bound conformations of inhibitor peptides in solution.

(3) This information is used to generate pharmacophore models with the help of molecular modelling. Pharmaco-phores provide abstract descriptions of molecular features based on general characteristics (e.g. hydrogen bond donors or acceptors, hydrophobic or charged groups, etc.). These can then be used for virtual screening designed to identify small lead structures for the inhibition of PPIs.

research partnersProf. Dr. Norbert Müller, Institute of Organic Chemistry at Johannes Kepler University Linz, and Prof. Dr. Kamil Önder, Procomcure Biotech GmbH, Salzburg

FunDingThe project is funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency under the 15th call for the BRIDGE 1 programme line.

statusOngoing

deVeloPIng a desIgn PIPelIne for InnoVaTIVe ProTeIn-ProTeIn InTeraCTIon InhIbITors

38

Molecular Modelling: The interaction between ACP-ACPS (Acyl Carrier Protein - Acyl Carrier Protein Synthase) serves as a model system in the PPI pro-ject. The Figure above shows the ACP-ACPS interaction as derived from an X-ray structure (PDB Code: 4DXE)

39

deParTmenT healTh sCIenCes: KeY researCh ToPICs

40

contact

prof.(Fh) priv.-Doz. mag. Dr. gerhard tucekHead of Research, Department Health Sciences

Programme Director, Music Therapy


prof.(Fh) reinhard beikircher, masHead of Department Health Sciences

Programme Director, Physiotherapy


intervention, impLementation anD outcome research The Health Sciences Department at IMC Krems carries out research into therapeutic and nursing care as well as procedures on and in conjunction with patients. These can be interventions that are systematically developed at the department, or existing interventions that are systematically tested. Suitable outcome measures and meas-urement instruments, which may be specially developed, are an important part of the imple-mentation and evaluation process. The department’s research projects are inter-disciplinary and focus on practical application, covering health promotion, prevention, cura -tive care and rehabilitation, and encompassing the entire course of a person’s life from birth to professional end of life care. Chronic illness is another theme that projects address.

A major priority in our research is consideration of the diverse perspectives and needs of all stakeholders, from patients and their relatives to different kinds of health professionals. We also place a particular emphasis on involving patients and medical practitioners in evaluation. The objective is to bring practice and research closer together.

Our degree programmes address specially designed curative, rehabilitative and preventive patient pathways and related procedures in the following fi elds:

midwifery: pre-pregnancy and prenatal care, childbirth, postnatal and infant careOccupational therapy: development, restoration and preservation of the skills required for day-to-day life, and compensating for the loss of such abilities

physiotherapy: development, restoration and preservation of everyday practical skills, and the musculoskeletal structures required

music therapy: the ways in which music, thera-peutic relationships and creativity can infl uence an individual’s condition during periods of good health, illness and recuperation

advanced nursing practice: complex issues facing nursing and care professionals, as well as the development of care techniques and problem-solving approaches

stress anD reguLation researchThis fi eld of research is founded on the widely-held perception in molecular biology that the body’s self-healing powers are only fully effective in a state of vagotonia (or relaxation) (see Tracy 2002).

primary research aims � Development of interdisciplinary thera-

peutic models in the fi eld of clinical stress prevention and treatment and establishing the use of the regulatory capabilities of the human body as an indicator of the effi cacy of therapy or care. The current focus of our research is the optimal point in time for the use of ergotropic (activating) and tropho-tropic (relaxing) therapies in the context of circadian and ultra-dian vegetative rhythms. Ideally ergotropic therapies are administered to coincide with the patient’s psychological and physical active phases and trophotropic therapies to coincide with psychological and physical relaxation or rest phases.

� Interdisciplinary cooperation models inpatient care. Along with the expectation that therapeutic interventions made at the right moment will contribute to better outcomes, the research team is also investigating whether therapeutic communication and relationship models play a signifi cant role.

� Development of a model for a “healthy university”, with a special focus on healthy stress management.

41

PosITron emIssIon TomograPhY (PeT) and musIC TheraPY PIloT sTudY

contact: prof.(Fh) priv.-Doz. mag. Dr. gerhard tucekHead of Research, Department Health Sciences



bacKgrounDTraumatic brain injury (TBI) is one the most common neuro-logical disorders across the globe. Due to Austria’s unique emergency care procedures, more and more people in the country are surviving acute brain injury. Patients first receive intensive medical care, which is then followed by neurologic-al rehabilitation treatment.

Brain injuries bring about a variety of physical and psycho-logical complaints. The site and severity of the brain lesion is always a decisive factor for the patient’s outlook in terms of disability.

Additionally, damage to the pathways between the brain centres can cause dysfunction in communication between them, and therefore secondary functional loss and processing problems. This results in neurological disorders such as poor concentration, attention and alertness.

Music therapy can establish new communication paths in the brain and is therefore a promising form of therapy for rebuilding communication structures between brain centres. This process is of central importance in every course of neuro-rehabilitation therapy.

IMC Krems is carrying out a pilot study to investigate the effect-iveness of music therapy in this area, which includes work that forms part of three master theses and a doctoral thesis.

research aimsThe primary aim of the research is to determine the changes in brain activity (frontal lobe, hippocampus and cerebellum) and behaviour that can be brought about in vegetative state patients by means of music therapy. The project will also ex-amine if there are any links between changes in brain activity and behaviour. Master thesis work to be carried out in parallel will also investigate changes in the vegetative state using heart rate variability (HRV) measurements.

Research for another master thesis will evaluate video data of therapy sessions using qualitative analysis methods.

A University of Vienna anthropology project for a doctoral thesis is accompanying this study of the effects of music therapy on vegetative state patients, examining them from a neuro-anthropological perspective.

research DesignThe project’s central research questions are:1. Which areas of the brain are activated by music therapy in patients with neurological damage?2. Can similarities in brain activity between patients be identified (networks for music processing and music therapy)?3. Can a change in brain activity (PET), data relating to the vegetative state (HRV) and video data be observed over the five-week course of therapy?

PET is being used to record brain activity, behaviour is being observed by means of video analysis, and HRV is being em-ployed to gather psychophysiological data.

research partnersIMC University of Applied Sciences Krems, Landesklinikum Hochegg and Landesklinikum Wiener Neustadt

FunDing The project is being co-financed by Niederösterreichische Gesundheits- und Sozialfonds (NÖGUS)

status Ongoing

42

PosITron emIssIon TomograPhY (PeT) and musIC TheraPY PIloT sTudY

43

The rIghT momenT – PIloT sTudY on The rePresenTaTIon of CIrCadIan and ulTradIan rhYThms of PaTIenTs In Phase C neurorehabIlITaTIon bY means of hearT raTe VarIabIlITY bacKgrounDOver the last decade personalised medicine has become increasingly important in the fields of and pharmacogenetics, pharmacogenomics, clinical diagnostics, and in particular chronopharmacology, which is concerned with the optimal point in time for drug delivery. However, with respect to therapeutic interventions (in a clinical context), there has been virtually no inquiry into the most beneficial time to give therapy in relation to a patient’s chronobiological rhythms.This project focuses on the question of the ideal time to administer therapy in relation to individual biological rhythms, measured using heart rate variability (HRV).

research aimsThe primary aim is to establish how individual circadian and ultradian rhythms can be represented most effectively by means of HRV analysis. Further objectives are: � to determine which measurements and how many intra-

individual measurements are required to achieve a reliable baseline for the subject’s chronobiological oscillations. � with respect to ascertaining the optimal time for therapy

from a chronobiological standpoint, to establish the empirical basis for the development of a tool (video analysis) which will have applications in clinical practice, teaching and research. � to play an active role in the pioneering phase of the

development of scientific standards (parameters and data analysis) for the representation and characterisation of circadian and especially ultradian rhythms using HRV.

� and on this basis, to develop an interdisciplinary evaluation method for the determination of the optimal time for therapeutic interventions.

research DesignThis research question requires an interdisciplinary approach encompassing areas of neurobiology, medicine, anthropology, psychology and music therapy.In this mixed-methods study, designed as basic research on the basis of pragmatic questions at the interface with practical application (translational research), physiological (vegetative) parameters will be triangulated with qualitative (psychosocial) data in order to represent and correlate the biological and subjective levels of observation.

research partnersIMC University of Applied Sciences Krems, Landesklinikum Mauer

FunDing The project is being financed by the Science and Research Department (K 3) of the Province of Lower Austria.

statusOngoing

contact: prof.(Fh) priv.-Doz. mag. Dr. gerhard tucekHead of Research, Department Health Sciences



44

CooPeraTIng wITh ImC Krems research in coLLaboration With business partners IMC Krems carries out targeted research projects with regional, national and international research partners with the aim of making findings available to our partners and inte-grating them into the university’s research-led teaching for the benefit of students.

WiDe-ranging partnership opportunities � Application-driven research activities focusing on our key

research topics � Privately assigned and publicly funded projects � Organisation of numerous meetings and conferences

to promote dialogue between members of the scientific community � Involvement of bachelor and master students in course-

related and research projects

highLy quaLiFieD staFF anD aDvanceD inFrastructureIMC Krems places special emphasis on establishing and continually developing the seven key research topics in our three departments: Business, Health and Life Sciences. The university’s highly qualified faculty members work on numer ous research projects that involve students on an

ongoing basis. Projects range in duration from a few weeks to five years, and modern facilities promote high-quality research outcomes.

FunDing anD FunDing proviDers � FH Plus (FFG) � COIN/COIN Aufbau (FFG) � Bridge (FFG) � FEMtech (FFG) � Innovationsscheck/Innovation Cheque EUR 5,000 (FFG) � Innovationsscheck Plus/Innovation Cheque Plus

EUR 10,000 (FFG) � Athenoe-eCall project submission platform, Province of

Lower Austria � Province of Lower Austria (direct funding/co-financing) � NÖ Forschungs- und Bildungsges.m.b.H. (NFB) calls � European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) � European Territorial Cooperation (ETC)/Interreg � Austria Wirtschaftsservice Gesellschaft mbH (AWS) � Talents Regional/internships (FFG) � Erasmus programme (EU) � Erasmus+ programme (EU) � Lifelong Learning Programme (EU) � The World Bank

46

seleCTed ProJeCT ParTners companies/institutions/organisations

AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH

The Czech Academy of Sciences

SalzburgerLand Tourismus GmbH

Austria Wirtschaftsservice Gesellschaft mbH

Baxalta Austria

Austrian Federal Ministry of Science, Research and Economy (Directorate General Tourism & Historic Buildings, Department III/1 Tourism Policy)

Corps Touristique

Danube University Krems

ecoplus. The Business Agency of Lower Austria

European Certification and Qualification Association (ECQA)

Eppendorf Austria GmbH

Niederösterreichische Kulturszene Betriebs GmbH

SRH University Heidelberg

Forum Alpen Adria Genuss, Gailtal farmers in Kirchbach

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KG

Die Gärten Niederösterreichs

Gemeindeverband Karnische Region/Carnia Region Local Authorities Association

Johannes Kepler University Linz

Chamber of Labour of Lower Austria (AKNÖ)

Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences

Lanserhof GmbH

Medical University of Vienna

Microsoft Corporation

Nö Gesundheits- und Sozialfonds/Lower Austrian Health and Social Fund

NÖ Landeskliniken-Holding

Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg

ProComCure Biotech GmbH Linz

respACT – austrian business council for sustainable development

Ricoh Austria GmbH

Ricoh Hungary

SCIOTEC Diagnostic Technologies GmbH

Technische Universität Berlin

University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna

Hohe Tauern Health

University of Applied Sciences Tyrol

St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences

Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge

s-team IT solutions GmbH 47

imc university of applied sciences KremsPiaristengasse 13500 Krems, Austria, EuropeTel: +43 2732 802

[email protected]

Version:07/2015

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imc research brochure

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