Animal and Human Health
The health of humans and animals is closely linked through shared living spaces, nutrition, and zoonotic diseases. At the TUM School of Life Sciences, researchers are working on an interdisciplinary basis to develop innovative solutions for a sustainable future. Among other things, they are researching how food production can be made not only more environmentally friendly but also more animal-friendly, how healthy nutrition can be promoted and how the spread of diseases can be prevented. In interdisciplinary cooperation, they develop practical solutions that combine ecological, health and technological aspects.
Three outstanding collaborative research projects, which are characterized by interdisciplinary cooperation and modern technologies, are making a decisive contribution.
The microbial communities - so-called microbiomes - play a key role for humans, animals and the environment. The CRC 1371: Microbiome Signatures investigates how the microbiome functions in the digestive tract. These findings could enable new therapies and preventive measures for various diseases.
The TRR 333: BATenergy project investigates how brown and beige fat burns energy and generates heat. The aim is to gain a better understanding of how organs and cells work together in order to develop new treatments for obesity and metabolic diseases.
Using modern analysis techniques, the CLINSPECT-M – Clinical mass spectrometry center for molecular brain research provides deeper insights into the molecular causes of diseases of the central nervous system. This research improves the diagnosis and treatment of neurological diseases.
Interdisciplinary Health Research:
- Combining agricultural, food and nutritional sciences to transform food production and nutrition
- Linking plant and environmental sciences to promote a healthy environment
- New findings to preserve the microbial diversity of humans, animals, plants and the environment
- Interconnected research on immunopathogenesis and the development of new therapeutic approaches for the early detection and targeted treatment of diseases
What we do – One Health
The health of humans and animals is inextricably linked to their environment. At the TUM School of Life Sciences, the "One Health" principle is at the core of research aimed at developing sustainable solutions to global health challenges. Climate change, population growth, biodiversity loss, and resource limitations present significant challenges, particularly in terms of food security and disease prevention. A comprehensive understanding of the interactions between humans, animals, plants, microorganisms, soil, and the environment is crucial for ensuring the health of all living beings in the long term – including for future generations.
At the TUM School of Life Sciences, all levels of health are considered – from microbial processes to individual organisms and complex ecosystems. The close integration of various disciplines allows for the identification of new connections and the development of innovative solutions for a healthy future.
Center for Infection Prevention
The aim is to develop innovative strategies for preventing and avoiding the spread of germs.
AI in life sciences
Better AI models in practice: researchers call for more interdisciplinarity in the life sciences.
Measuring life: How we determine the functions of proteins in nature
Proteins - also known as albumen - are vital nutrients. In our cells, proteins are the molecular tools that control all biophysical and biochemical processes.
“Due to their central role in almost all processes of life, they play a key role in the detection of diseases, the development of resistance and the development of drugs.”
Particular attention is paid to the use of computer science methods such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, and how this enables both the measurement and analysis of the data obtained and elucidates the function and role of proteins.
Reduction of antibiotics
Minimize the use of antibiotics in poultry without affecting animal welfare.
Integrated genetic scissors
Chickens provide important insights into the molecular basis of health and disease.
Award of the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz-Medal
Prof. Dr. Dirk Haller received the award in 2020 for his outstanding research into the role of nutrition and the microbiome in the pathogenesis of chronic diseases.
How the intestinal microbiome influences health
A better understanding of the interactions provides new approaches for the prevention of infectious diseases and the promotion of gastrointestinal health.
Food / Agro / Biotech Startups Promoting Human and Animal Health with Innovative Solutions
Through our research and targeted support, groundbreaking startups are emerging in the field of human and animal health. These startups are revolutionizing healthcare with innovative ideas and technologies. Learn more about young companies developing solutions for sustainable, healthy, and innovative treatment and prevention of diseases, making a significant contribution to society.
FarmInsect
Future-proof agriculture: insects as a natural source of protein for improved animal welfare.
Keynostic
Personalized vitamin diagnosis to determine your vitamin status - simply, quickly and from home.
Promoting Human and Animal Health Sustainably Through Partnerships
Through our cooperation with research institutions such as the ZIEL - Institute for Food and Health, the Center for Infection Prevention (ZIP), and the Else Kröner Fresenius Center for Nutritional Medicine (EKFZ), which are in close contact with the industry, as well as with companies and initiatives, strong partnerships are created that promote human and animal health. Find out more about innovative projects and collaborations that develop sustainable solutions to strengthen disease prevention, health systems and animal health and thus ensure a healthy future for humans and animals.
