Ferroptotic cell death in adrenal inflammation and septic shock (A01)

• Subject Area: Endocrinology, Diabetology, Metabolism
• Term: since 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 314061271

The rapid secretion of adrenal glucocorticoids is essential for survival during bacterial infections and sepsis. Our previous research demonstrated that mouse mortality in experimental sepsis correlates with adrenal inflammation and adrenocortical cell death. Additionally, we discovered that ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of necrotic cell death, may be involved in this process. In the final funding period, we will investigate whether pharmacological or adrenal cell-specific inhibition of ferroptosis can prevent adrenal inflammation and dysfunction in mouse models of sepsis and adrenal tuberculosis. We will also thoroughly examine the mechanisms and effects of adrenal ferroptosis using established primary adrenal spheroid cell cultures.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 205: The Adrenal: Central Relay in Health and Disease
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität Dresden
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Stefan R. Bornstein; Dr. Waldemar Kanczkowski; Professor Dr. Andreas Linkermann, since 7/2021