Series of Public Talks "Köpfe. Forschung. Einblicke"

What happens in the natural and life sciences the University of Hohenheim? In this public lecture series the researchers of our faculty present fascinating insights into their work. Open to all, within and beyond the university community, who have an interest in the compelling latest developments in science. Please note that some lectures will be held in German language. Sign up is not required and the entry is free of charge. 

Thursday, July 10, 2025 | 5pm c.t. | Balconyroom in the Palace

Dr. habil. Martina Feger, Department of Physiology
Fibroblastenwachstumsfaktor 23 - Regulation sowie physiologische und pathophysiologische Relevanz

Phosphat ist ein essentieller Nahrungsbestandteil, der zusammen mit Calcium für die Festigkeit der Knochen sorgt. Eine präzise Kontrolle der Kalzium- und Phosphatkonzentration im Extrazellulärraum erfolgt durch Parathormon und aktiviertes Vitamin D. Neuere Forschung zeigt, dass der Fibroblastenwachstumsfaktor 23 (FGF23) und sein Korezeptor Klotho wichtige Regulatoren des Phosphathaushalts sind. Erhöhte FGF23-Bildung tritt unter bestimmten pathophysiologischen Bedingungen auf, während Klotho schützende Effekte auf Organe hat. Der Vortrag beleuchtet die Funktionen von FGF23 und Klotho sowie eigene Forschungsarbeiten, die zeigen, dass FGF23 mehr ist als nur ein Knochenhormon.

We will be delighted to welcome you back to the lectures in the coming winter semester which will take place on the following days: 
November 13, 2025 | December 11, 2025  |  January 29, 2026. 
All lectures begin at 5pm c.t. and take place in Schloss Balkonsaal (central Hohenheim Palace building, first floor). 

Dr. Felipe Jimenez-Dr. Felipe Jimenez-Aspee, Fachgebiet Biofunktionalität der Lebensmittel Exploring

Exploring the Bioaccessibility, Bioavailability and Bioactivity of secondary metabolites from Beans and Berries

Secondary Secondary metabolites in foods can help prevent metabolic and chronic diseases. For effects, they must be released (bioaccessible), absorbed and transported (bioavailable), and trigger responses (bioactive). Berries, especially Ericaceae, are rich in (poly)phenols and iridoids. Beans also support cardiometabolic health. This study investigates bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of compounds from Gaultheria berries and various Phaseolus vulgaris landraces.

Prof. Dr. Ricardo Pereira, Fachgebiet Biodiversitätsmonitoring / Staatliches Museum für Naturkunde Stuttgart

Natural History Collections as windows to understand and monitor biodiversity

How do species form and persist in changing environments? Although these evolutionary processes are hard to infer from well-differentiated species, they can be observed in closely related taxa. We use genomic methods in hybridizing species (e.g., amphibians, reptiles, fishes, cephalopods, insects) to identify key traits and genes involved in these processes. By leveraging natural history and monitoring collections we can understand the drivers of genomic diversity within species over time, reaffirming the role of Natural History Museums to respond to modern scientific and societal challenges.