Experience Report: Temporary Substitutes for Clinicians at CRC 1270/2 ELAINE (2024/25) - Dr. med. Charlott Gärtner, Neurology Resident
Dr. Charlott Gärtner joined our CRC 1270 ELAINE for a research rotation to explore the mechanisms of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in Parkinson’s disease. Building on her doctoral research in a Parkinson-focused lab, she became part of the research group led by Prof. Alexander Storch and Dr. Mareike Fauser to investigate neuroinflammation in a preclinical DBS model.
Her project focused on how subthalamic stimulation affects microglial activation in alpha-synuclein-overexpressing rats.
In addition to immunohistochemical analyses, she gained hands-on experience with animal models and obtained her FELASA-B certificate. The rotation provided valuable insights into experimental workflows, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the flexibility of academic research compared to clinical routines.
“The rotation allowed me to deepen my understanding of Parkinson’s pathophysiology, explore new techniques, and connect with researchers from different disciplines. I would highly recommend it to clinicians with an interest in research.”
We are proud to support young clinicians like Dr. Gärtner in bridging the gap between clinical practice and experimental neuroscience.