Proper gene expression is important for the development and functioning of tissues and organs. Therefore, gene expression is regulated at different levels. One process controlling gene expression is RNA interference, a process which uses small RNAs such as microRNAs to silence genes. These microRNAs are involved in many different cellular processes and are therefore important in the differentiation of stem cells.

Philipp Dillschneider studied the expression of microRNAs in the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to fat and bone forming cells. Furthermore, he studied small RNAs as potential drugs for tissue engineering.

His studies contribute to a better understanding of how microRNAs are expressed during the course of differentiation.

The PhD degree was completed at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, Science and Technology, Aarhus University.

Time: Wednesday, 27 August 2014 at 10.15
Place: 1110-223, the Lecture Theatre, C. F. Møllers Allé 8, Aarhus University
Title of dissertation: MicroRNA: A biomarker and a tool for adipogenesis and osteogenesis of mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells
Contact information: Philipp Dillschneider, e-mail: pdi@mb.au.dk, tel.: +45 8715 6722
Members of the assessment committee:
Professor Richard Oreffo, Institute of Development Sciences, University of Southampton, United Kingdom
Professor Susanne Mandrup, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark
Senior Researcher Morten Foss (chair), iNANO, Aarhus University
Main supervisor:
Professor Jørgen Kjems, iNANO and Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University
Language: The PhD dissertation will be defended in English.

The defence is public.
The dissertation is available for reading at the Graduate School of Science and Technology/GSST, Ny Munkegade 120, building 1521, room 112, 8000 Aarhus C