People Teaching Research People Teaching Research

PEOPLE TEACHING RESEARCH PEOPLE TEACHING RESEARCH

Charité — excellence in health care CHARITÉ OFFERS OUTSTANDING HEALTH CARE. CHARITÉ’S STAFF MEMBERS DELIVER CLINICAL CARE, RESEARCH, AND TEACHING TO THE HIGH EST INTERNATIONAL STANDARD. ALL OF THEIR EFFORTS COMBINE EXCEPTIONAL EXPERTISE WITH SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY.

1 Foreword 6

2 From ‘pest house’ to Europe‘s largest university hospital 8 More than 300 years of making people our purpose — insights into the history of Charité 9 Charité today — a leading health care organization with a social conscience 16

3 Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 24 Highest standards of medical care 25 Nursing competence 28 Excellence in research 30 Cutting-edge concepts in teaching and learning 33

4 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 36 Neuroscience 37 Oncology 40 Regenerative therapies 42 Cardiology 45 Immunology 48 Genetics 50

5 Charité‘s strategic networks 52 Cooperative projects with industrial partners — from research innovation to practical application 53 Truly international 55 Charité Foundation — promoting innovation 57 World Health Summit — bringing experts together 59 Berlin Institute of Health — a model facility for translational research 62

6 Charité in numbers 64 Organogram 66

Content 5 1 Foreword

Charité — Universitätsmedizin Berlin, which recently marked its 300-year anniversary, Welcome to Charité. For over 300 years, within the social care arena. Aside from is now the largest university hospital in Europe. Throughout its history, Charité has been we have been attracting people and interest, being responsible for the well-being of its dedicated to research, teaching, and medical care. We hope that our brochure ’People — not simply from within the Berlin area and patients, Charité is also actively involved in Teaching — Research’ will provide an insight into the numerous facets of our organization. the rest of Germany, but also from all over supporting victims of violence. In an effort the world. Whether patients, physicians, to find solutions to current and future chal- researchers or nursing staff, people come lenges within the field of medicine, Charité to us because they share a faith in Charité‘s is also leading the current debate on develop- expertise and reputation, both of which were ments within the national and international built on modern treatment methods, inter health care systems. nationally-renowned research facilities, and innovative teaching concepts. People are at Although intended to provide an insight into the center of everything we do. The well- the various facets that make up Europe‘s being of our patients is our motivation, and largest university hospital, this brochure can- we are not happy unless we know you and not claim to provide a true representation of your family members are comfortable. an organization of this size and complexity. We sincerely hope that, after reading this bro- Charité is not merely a center of excellence chure, you will want to discover our strengths in research, teaching and medical care. Within first-hand, and you are hereby cordially invited the wider Berlin-Brandenburg area, Charité to visit us at any time. also acts as a driving force within the health care industry, with many businesses choosing to position themselves nearby, and thus creating a large number of jobs. Charité also acts as a driver of innovation within the life sciences, a role regularly reinforced through its involvement in a diverse range of cooperative projects with industrial partners and non-university-based research organizations. Naturally, Charité also plays an important role

6 Foreword 7 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s 2largest university hospital

More than 300 years of making people our purpose — insights into the history of Charité

Charité’s long tradition of excellence in medical care, research, and teaching dates back From ’pest house’ to a hospital for the poor Charité, which established itself as the city’s hundreds of years. Time and again, Charité’s outstanding staff members have pioneered new Rather than being driven by ambitions of clini- hospital for the poor, provided care to a wide scientific developments that have been, and continue to be, instrumental to modern medicine. cal excellence, Charité’s foundation (in 1710) range of patients, including soldiers, the poor, was a direct result of a general fear of the unmarried pregnant women, and prostitutes. ‘black death’, which was gradually advancing Overuse and overcrowding soon led to a Its history, stretching back more than three hundred years, has become intricately linked toward Berlin from Northeastern Europe. In marked decline in the quality of medical care with that of Berlin, Germany, and Europe. Having been shaped by political, societal, and social response to the threat of an epidemic, King available; modifications were necessary. influences and developments, Charité’s history, makes for a particularly interesting read. Frederick I, King of Prussia, ordered a ‘pest 1785 marked the beginning of construction house’ to be built outside the Berlin city walls, work on an imposing new building. A further Today, Charité is the largest university hospital in Europe, and enjoys an outstanding inter which would serve as an isolation unit for extension to this building, which was con- national reputation within the fields of both medicine and academia. anyone infected with the disease. structed in the style of the late Baroque era, was added in 1834. Although the disease was highly contagious, Berlin managed to escape unscathed, leaving Charité’s first Golden Age a search to find a new use for the now During the same period, the delivery of superfluous pest house. Initially, the building medical care also became more professional. was used both as a home for the poor and Initially, army physicians were assisted by a military hospital for ill and injured soldiers. former patients — an arrangement that In 1726, a district medical officer by the name allowed patients to pay off the cost of their of Christian Habermaass suggested to the hospital stay and treatment. This situation king that the building could be converted into changed in 1832 with the foundation of a care home for the poor. As the move would Charité’s School of Nursing, which led to also allow army physicians to gain some the use of trained nursing staff. desperately needed clinical experience, King Frederick I agreed. As part of a move that Medical training also improved. Prior to 1810, would grant the institution tax-free status, and the transfer of medical training to the the king named the building Charité — after higher education sector, all of Charité’s phy- the French word for ‘compassion’. sicians were practice-oriented professionals

8 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 9 Selmar Aschheim Heinrich Adolf von Bardeleben Emil Adolf von Behring Carl August Wilhelm Berends Ernst von Bergmann who relied on, and were guided by, building and renovation program. Con- Gustav Bergmann their own professional experience. The first struction lasted until 1917, and resulted in the August Bier training course offered by the newly-founded iconic red brick hospital complex that is still a Theodor Billroth University of Berlin (now Humboldt-Universi- characteristic feature of the Charité’s Berlin- Hans Erhard Bock Karl Bonhoeffer tät zu Berlin) attracted a total of 117 new Mitte campus, and which covers 133,000 Ernst Boris Chain students in its first semester. square meters (nearly 1.5 million square feet). Paul Ehrlich During the first third of the 20th Century, im- Emil Fischer Werner Forßmann The event also marked the beginning of proved treatment conditions allowed Charité Käte Frankenthal Charité’s triumphant successes within the to develop into a modern general hospital. Albrecht von Graefe field of research. Many famous researchers Since then, patients from all walks of life have Wilhelm Griesinger (including, at a later stage, female scientists) placed their trust in the hospital’s services Hermann Gutzmann Hermann Gutzmann jr. made groundbreaking discoveries while and expertise. Hermann von working at Charité — invaluable contributions Helmholtz th Herbert Herxheimer to both its growing international reputation Charité during the 20 Century — Otto Heubner and the history of modern medicine. The history reflected Rahel Hirsch years between 1840 and 1920 represent The hospital’s first Golden Age was followed Magnus Hirschfeld a first Golden Age in the history of Charité, by the darkest chapter in German history. Christoph Wilhelm Hufeland and include the contributions of eminent The Nazi era spelled disaster for the German Robert Koch researchers such as the pathologist Rudolf scientific community and cultural life in Albrecht Kossel Friedrich Kraus Virchow, the physician Ludwig Traube, the general. Charité did not escape untarnished. Hans Adolf Krebs psychiatrist Wilhelm Griesinger, and the ‘Racial hygiene’ measures and ‘political Bernhard von internist Rahel Hirsch. The groundbreaking reasons’ led to the dismissal of at least Langenbeck Paul Langerhans discoveries by Nobel Prize laureates Emil 145 physicians and scientists across Charité, Ernst von Leyden von Behring, Paul Ehrlich, and Robert Koch including Selmar Aschheim and Bernhard Fritz Albert Lipmann are also intricately linked with Charité’s Zondek, two internationally-renowned gyne- Leonor Michaelis Willoughby Dayton Miller history. In total, Charité can lay claim to more cologists who had developed the first-ever Rudolf Nissen than half of all German Nobel Prize winners biological pregnancy test. While many of Hermann Oppenheim in Physiology or Medicine. Charité’s former members of staff went into Otto Prokop Samuel Mitja Rapoport exile, large numbers of researchers were Ferdinand Sauerbruch Transformation into a modern university unable to get to safety and perished in Curt Schimmelbusch hospital concentration camps. Johann Lukas Schönlein Although Charité was able to celebrate Hans Spemann previously unknown levels of success within Of the staff members who remained, Walter Stoeckel the field of research; the hospital was also the majority adapted to the new political Franziska Tiburtius Ludwig Traube receiving criticism for its falling standards of pressures, but there were also some instan- Rudolf Virchow hygiene. Toward the end of the 19th Century, ces of active resistance against the Nazi Otto Warburg many of its wards were overcrowded or in a regime. Among those who followed their August von Wassermann state of disrepair. Having assessed Charité’s conscience was Georg Groscurth, a lecturer Bernhard Zondek facilities, the Workers’ Hygiene Committee in Internal Medicine, who was arrested and (Arbeiter-Sanitätskommission) — a committee sentenced to death; he was executed at tasked with monitoring standards of hygiene the prison in Brandenburg on May 8, 1944. — demanded that all buildings be comprehen- Charité staff members who were complicit sively renovated and modernized. They also in the crimes perpetrated by the Nazi regime demanded improvements to medical care. included: Maximilian de Crinis, a psychiatrist, The committee’s call for a boycott of Charité who was actively involved in organizing was heeded by all Berlin-based health ‘Action T4’, a forced euthanasia program insurance providers, and resulted in a rapid for mentally-ill patients; Fritz Lenz, an expert drop in the hospital’s overall revenue. In 1896, in ‘racial hygiene; and Lothar Kreuz, an the Prussian parliament finally approved the orthopedic surgeon. funding required for a comprehensive

10 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 11 1710 Built as a ‘pest house’ outside Berlin’s city walls

1727 Repurposed as a civic hospital and renamed Charité by Frederick I, King of Prussia

1785 Rebuilt in an effort to improve conditions and medical care

The Nazi regime and the war it initiated recognition for its work in certain fields of previously) had been prompted by its epony- Discovering the marvels spelled ruin for Charité, including financially. research, including neuroscience. mous founder. Situated in Berlin-Wedding, of medical history By 1945, 20% of its buildings had been a former working man’s district in northwest completely destroyed, 40% had sustained A new quest to regain old strength Berlin, and built in the ‘pavilion-style’, it was Berlin’s Museum of Medical History severe damage, and minor damage had been The Fall of the Berlin Wall (1989) and the one of the most beautiful hospitals ever at Charité offers visitors an insight caused to a further 30%. Only 10% of reunification of the two German states (1990) constructed. The hospital complex, which into the workings of the human body the hospital’s buildings were left virtually once again heralded an era of fundamental comprised 57 separate buildings situated and the history of the medical sciences unaffected. change. Despite its rich tradition, Charité along a 500-meter long avenue lined with over the past 300 years. The museum’s now faced the challenge of successfully chestnut trees, also provided accommodation permanent exhibition Dem Leben auf In an effort to confront its Nazi past, Charité positioning itself within the new health care for approximately 700 staff members, der Spur (‘tracking the path of life’) includes Rudolf Virchow’s famous has been actively involved in supporting market, which arose from the reunification physicians, nurses, and service personnel. specimen collection, medical wax models research and has initiated a series of relevant of Berlin. This required major restructuring, Prior to suffering severe damage during and instruments, as well as a historical events. Insights and findings are being made the reorga-nization of many of Charité’s the Second World War, the imposing pavilion- medical ward. With its collection of available to the public, including at the Berlin Departments and Institutes, and a process style complex had a park-like appearance, 1,400 objects, the museum attracts Museum of Medical History. During the time of rationalization, which would allow the or- with generous lawn areas, flower beds, a approximately 70,000 visitors a year, of the GDR (German Democratic Republic), ganization to meet the economic challenges fountain, and a multitude of park benches. including both experts and members Charité became a flagship institution of the of the 21st Century. Contemporaneously, Only a few of the original buildings remained of the general public. socialist regime. By 1960, the majority of its Charité initiated efforts to secure its inter- intact. New structural features were added characteristic red brick buildings, which had national standing in research, teaching, and toward the end of the 1980s when the com- Further information: been largely destroyed during the war, had medical care. All of these ambitious targets plex, which is now protected as a historical www.bmm-charite.de been completely rebuilt. The years between were met when Charité merged with the monument, was turned into a university 1976 and 1982 saw the completion of a university hospitals in West Berlin. hospital. The merger in 1997/98 saw Rudolf- 21-storey, specialist surgical center (COZ). Virchow-Krankenhaus become part of This new-build provided ideal conditions for Charité’s merger with Rudolf-Virchow- Humboldt University’s Medical Faculty. first-class health care services for patients Krankenhaus from all over the country, as well as offering In 1997/98, Charité merged with Rudolf- Presence in Berlin-Buch first-class facilities for research and teaching. Virchow-Krankenhaus, a hospital whose 2001 saw the acquisition of two further Once again, Charité achieved international construction (approximately 100 years hospitals, both of which are situated on

12 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 13 Charité’s first female professor

Initially not permitted to study at a German university 1903 because of her gender, Rahel Hirsch began her medical studies at Zurich University in 1898, later moving to Leipzig and then Strasbourg. Following the completion of her doctoral degree, she moved to Charité, where she started her research into metabolic processes in 1903. She was the first researcher to prove that undissolved substances such as starch particles can be eliminated, not only via the intestine, but also via the kidneys. Despite being mocked by many of her male colleagues when she presented her 1907 findings in 1907, she remained unperturbed and continued with her research. Her persistence was rewarded when, 1913 in 1913, she became Charité’s first female professor.

Campus Berlin Buch

Campus Virchow-Klinikum

Campus Berlin-Buch. Since the merger, the University Hospital (UKBF), a hospital with two hospitals, Robert-Rössle-Klinik and approximately 1,200 beds and 36 separate Franz-Volhard-Klinik, have been tasked with research facilities. UKBF, which was situated Campus Charité Mitte delivering research and teaching activities in the southwestern part of Berlin, was for Charité, while local medical care services effectively a product of the partition of are delivered by Helios-Klinikum. Since its Germany. The foundation of Freie Universität inception during the first third of the 20th in 1948 was the direct result of efforts by the Campus Benjamin Franklin Century, Charité’s Berlin-Buch site has been Western sectors to match developments in shaped by a spirit of cooperation. For a long the Eastern sector. The new medical faculty, time, the capital’s northeastern quarter which had been founded at the same time, had been home to a total of more than 5,000 was initially based across numerous munici- hospital beds, as well as numerous research pal hospitals, as Klinikum Steglitz, the new facilities. During the time of the GDR, university hospital complex, was not built Berlin-Buch came to be known as Eurasia’s until the 1960s. The United States Govern- largest hospital city. Today, it houses one of ment provided a considerable portion of the the largest biomedical centers in Germany, funding required for the project, and set up including biotechnology companies, hospi- the Benjamin Franklin Foundation to adminis- tals, and specialist departments, which helps ter this funding. In recognition of this support, foster a spirit of close cooperation. 2007 the hospital was later named after one of the saw the foundation of the Experimental and founding fathers of the United States of Clinical Research Center (ECRC), a trans- America — Benjamin Franklin. lational clinical research facility jointly run by Charité and the Max Delbrück Center for Four campuses — one identity Molecular Medicine (MDC). These three mergers resulted in all of Berlin’s university-based medical institutions and largest, but also one of the leading university university-based medicine to recapture Charité’s merger with the Benjamin facilities being combined under one roof: that hospitals in Europe. Closer integration of its former glory, and resulted in many of its Franklin University Hospital of Charité — Universitätsmedizin Berlin. Thus, the different sites also coincided with a constituent institutions returning to top A further merger was completed in 2003, over the course of only a few, short years, reorganization and rationalization of existing position within ranking schemes for research, when Charité acquired the Benjamin Franklin Charité had become not simply one of the structures. This process allowed Berlin’s teaching, and medical care.

14 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 15 Approx. 800,000 cases per year

Approx. 3,700 researchers and physicians

Approx. 7,000 students

Charité today — a leading health care organization with a social conscience

Commitment to innovation and a deep and future developments within the health in 2010. This training program, which remains Refining the spectrum of services sense of responsibility care market, and to finding solutions for unique within Germany, is characterized by For some time, Charité has been much more Charité holds the remarkable position of the most pressing challenges of the day. a close inter-linking of the areas of medical than a traditional hospital. An internationally- being both steeped in tradition and at the Its efforts are fueled by a desire to work for care, research, and teaching. For patients, renowned health care organization with a forefront of modern medicine. Having long the benefit of its patients and staff, and are this means that research findings are trans- hugely diverse business portfolio, it offers since found a way to allow the two to co- guided by a commitment to contributing ferred more quickly from bench to bedside, a multitude of additional services that are exist in harmony, its progress continues to to ongoing developments within the health a process that actively enhances the availabi- aimed at a range of different target groups. be shaped by its long and proud history, even care systems in place for Berlin, the rest of lity of new treatment options. Researchers These include cooperative projects with during the first part of the 21st Century. As Germany, and the world. Clearly, Charité’s and their various research projects also external partners, which are aimed at the birthplace of many pioneering innova- strategic approach offers a unique com- benefit from this close link with clinical appli- developing new drugs and medical devices. tions, Charité has developed into an easily- bination of social responsibility, scientific cation, as do young physicians who are still Charité Research Organisation (CRO), a recognizable brand, whose reputation has credibility, and entrepreneurial spirit. in training. Charité spin-off company that conducts grown well beyond Germany’s borders. clinical trials on behalf of renowned pharma Medical care, research, and teaching of In order to maintain and enhance its current ceutical companies, plays an important role In an effort to maintain its current status, outstanding quality position as a leader in the fields of research in this particular area, and makes an impor- Charité continues to rely on the two pillars Despite being a university hospital with a and medical care, Charité is concentrating tant contribution to Charité’s overall business of success that have always played a crucial caseload of approximately 800,000 patients its efforts on six main areas of clinical focus performance. Charité’s Preventive Medicine role in its overall development and positio- per year, Charité is much more than a place that have already garnered international Center represents a very different concept. ning. One of these pillars, and the reason offering outstanding medical care. In addition attention: neuroscience, oncology, regenera- With its comprehensive range of services, why Charité continues to stand out from to a student body of approximately 7,000 tive therapies, cardiology, immunology, and from simple health checks to burnout its competitors, is a reliable track record of medical students (including 20 % foreign genetics. A combination of strategic vision prevention, it allows companies to offer producing innovative developments capable students), the hospital is also home to appro- and targeted support will ensure that current attractive incentives to their managerial staff. of setting new standards. Furthermore, ximately 3,700 researchers, all of whom are levels of excellence are maintained in these Charité’s International Health Care Office, Charité’s achievements are not limited to actively engaged in addressing some of the areas, and will allow Charité to further en- on the other hand, offers organizational just one discipline, or even a handful of most pressing issues within the field of medi- hance its position and reputation on both and administrative support to international disciplines, but rather include almost every cine. Conscious of the challenges of providing a national and international level. patients hoping to travel to the German single medical specialty. The second pillar is training for the next generation of physicians, capital for medical treatment. Its services, Charité’s commitment to addressing current Charité introduced a new medical curriculum which are available to both patients and their

16 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 17 Pediatric Pre- Project ventive Medicine Dunkelfeld 1810 Foundation of Center (dark field) Berlin University and its Medical Preventing the sexual Faculty Early diagnosis and abuse of children and preventive care child pornography From 1840 Charité’s Golden Age as a renowned hospital and research facility Cooperation with Cooperation with State Office of S.I.G.N.A.L. Criminal Investi-

Social services offered by Charité by offered services Social gation Counseling for female Care and support for victims of domestic victims of rape violence

Cooperation with Obdachlosen- Berliner Behand- ambulanz lungszentrum für Folteropfer Psychosocial support Treatment for victims and medical care for families, include assistance with documenta- This process has contributed significantly to of torture homeless people tion and formalities, as well as arranging strengthening the capital’s business environ- accommodation and interpreters. As part of ment. As a result, Charité has been a crucial the Adlon Health Care Programme, Charité is factor in defining the regional economy, able to offer an exclusive health care package especially following the mergers of the past that includes a comprehensive program of few decades. Having secured an impressive health checks and a stay at the famous Hotel 25% of the capital’s health care market Internal quality management statistics confirm in how to cope with the challenges of every- Adlon Kempinski near the Brandenburg Gate. share, Charité is now one of the biggest that the hospital — which records more than day life, and language courses. Other projects The package includes special discounted players in terms of turnover. Similarly, with 5,000 births and more than 70,000 surgeries initiated by Charité are aimed at victims of flights with Lufthansa and Emirates airlines. more than 13,100 employees, Charité is also per year — is generally rated as ‘very good’ by domestic and sexual violence. one of the largest employers in Berlin. In inpatients following their stay. For cases that A driver of growth in the Berlin- addition, it consistently secures the highest require more detailed attention, Charité has Charité also has a center dedicated to pro- Brandenburg area level of third-party funding of any German put in place additional services and facilities. viding social pediatrics services to chronically- Despite receiving a great deal of recognition institution. Aside from creating an additional These allow the hospital to address the speci- ill children and adolescents. The center, which on both the national and international stage, 2,000 jobs, this has also resulted in a corres- fic needs of non-routine cases, while also offers a special program of services to children Charité has always remained committed to ponding increase in the city’s tax revenue. In fulfilling its social responsibilities with respect and their parents, reflects a holistic and serving the people of Berlin. Charité plays short, Charité has become one of the major to the remainder of its patients. As part of multidisciplinary approach. The ‘Teddy Bear a major role within the regional health care drivers of growth and employment within the these efforts, Charité has set up an interdisci- Hospital’, another project aimed at children, sector. With a total of more than 250,000 region. According to results from a study by plinary child protection group, which offers uses a play-based approach to help children employees, health care is Berlin’s growth the German Institute for Economic Research protection and support to victims of violence, lose their fear of doctors and the hospital sector, and Charité is one of its biggest play- (DIW Berlin), the Berlin state government re- abuse, and neglect. It also provides valuable environment. Through gentle prompting, ers. While its capacity for innovation produ- coups half of all of its investments in Charité support to victims of torture who, as a result ‘teddy doctors’ encourage children to tell ces groundbreaking developments in in the form of tax revenues of having been subjected to extreme violence, them what is wrong with their furry friends research and medical care, it is also a place suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. before explaining, in easy language, what of highly-concentrated skill and expertise. Social responsibility toward patients The services offered are available to victims treatments should be given. Another aim Charité effectively acts as a magnet for and public health of torture regardless of their nationality, and of the project is to provide information on health care-based companies and service In its role as a hospital, Charité holds respon- include psychological therapy, physiotherapy, healthy eating and dental hygiene. providers, many of which have settled nearby. sibility for the well-being of its patients. and occupational therapy, as well as training

18 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 19 The rise of the female physician

The beginning of the 20th Century brought about a major upheaval in employment conditions at Charité. In contrast to the situation in many other countries, Prussia upheld its ban on women attending university for a long time; it was not until 1896 that women were finally permitted to enroll as guests and, even then, the decision was greeted with displeasure by many of their male contemporaries.

In 1908, Prussia decided to finally allow women to enroll as regular students, and paved the way for women entering the medical profession. While the following years have seen a steady increase in the proportion of women in medicine, Charité continues to pursue its aim of matching this development with a comparable increase in the number of its female professors.

In addition to meeting its social responsibili- partnerships, which highlight the inherent community, and is involved in various forms bers of staff, which allows it to ensure that ties with regard to the well-being of individual innovative potential of Berlin’s university- of cooperative partnerships with companies levels of training and qualification meet the patients, Charité is also committed to addres- based medical institutions. from the health care industry, such as medical requirements of day-to-day clinical practice. sing the big system-related issues within the care providers and biomedical companies. health care sector. What are the medical Its cooperation with the Max Delbrück Center In addition to various cooperative partner- Another important issue is the balance challenges of an aging population, and what for Molecular Medicine (MDC) has broken ships with pharmaceutical companies, which between work and family commitments. This adaptations will have to be made to current new ground. In an effort to achieve a closer are aimed at developing and marketing new is particularly relevant in the medical profes- structures in order to allow our health care inter-linking of basic and clinical research, medicinal products, Charité has also teamed sion, which is being increasingly shaped by system to meet future challenges? What can the two partners founded the Experimental up with Vivantes, a partnership that has resul- its female members. In an effort to make the be done to promote global health? And will and Clinical Research Center (ECRC) and the ted in the largest hospital-based laboratory organization more family-friendly, Charité health care be affected by an ever-expanding Berlin Institute of Health (BIH). Charité has in Europe. has, for some time now, been actively pool of technological opportunities? As a also entered into other innovative partner- involved in promoting services and incentives major stakeholder within the health care ships, which involve both university-based Strategies aimed at enhancing Charité’s specifically aimed at the staff members with sector, Charité is committed to promoting the and non-university-based research establish- attractiveness to employees families. As the organization’s central point public debate around these questions, and to ments. One example of such an innovative Demographic changes currently affecting of contact, the Office of Family Affairs has finding solutions to these and many of the partnership is Charité’s collaboration with our society have not only led to an increase overseen the implementation and further other challenges facing us today. The annual Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht (HZG), in age-related diseases, but have also had development of all existing services since World Health Summit represents one of the which has resulted in the foundation of the a major impact on the employment market, 2010. The Office, whose services are available ways in which it hopes to contribute to this Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative with health care institutions in no way to both staff and students, provides advice process. Therapies (BCRT), a translational research exempt. Having accepted these changes as on how to better balance work/studies and center dedicated to studying the body’s a sign of the times, and been aware of the family commitments. As family commitments A highly sought after partner for pionee- own regenerative processes and how these current shortage of skilled professionals, are defined as having responsibility for ring cooperative projects might be stimulated. Another example is the Charité has begun promoting its status as dependents, the Office also provides infor- The outstanding quality of its health care, long-term cooperative agreement between an attractive employer. mation and advice for carers. The subject research, and teaching render Charité a Charité and the Max Planck Society for ‘family-friendly leadership’ also plays an reliable partner for both research organiza- the Advancement of Science, which includes Aside from presenting itself as attractive to important role in this regard, with efforts tions and private companies. This sought- the creation of joint professorships. Charité potential employees, Charité is also actively aimed at increasing awareness among the after status has resulted in Charité being is also regarded as a highly attractive and committed to investing in the continuing staff members in management positions. able to pioneer new types of cooperative sought-after partner within the business professional development of existing mem-

20 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 21 1856 Rudolf Virchow appointed Professor at Charité

1896 — 1917 Charité is rebuilt in its characteristic red brick style

1945 Charité is rebuilt after severe damage during WWII

Some of the numerous specialist clinics available at Charité

Charité has implemented many family- the maintenance and renovation of histori- friendly initiatives, two of the most success- cal buildings, Charité has also invested in ful being the appointment of Germany’s new, state-of-the-art research and treatment Coeliac disease first-ever Representative for Fathers, and a facilities — an essential move in ensuring that ALS clinic competition aimed at recognizing the organ- Charité continues to provide the highest ization’s most family-friendly unit. Another levels of medical care available. Autism clinic for adults example is the comprehensive level of child care services available to staff members, The most appropriate example is the Charité Pancreas clinic which include several day care centers with Cross Over building on Campus Mitte, a opening hours that strive to match parental research center that encourages the syn- Musicians‘ clinic shift patterns. The next few years will see the ergistic collaboration of different disciplines introduction of additional measures, which by placing particular emphasis on interdis- will further enhance the organization’s status ciplinary exchange. Current investments Short bowel syndrome as a family-friendly employer. in state-of-the-art facilities are crucial if the Memory clinic working environment is to support members Polyposis syndrome clinic Investing in infrastructure of staff in their efforts to deliver first-class Substantial investments, aimed at optimizing services and remain at the forefront of the organization’s infrastructure, form part modern medicine. Charité’s advanced infra- Psoriatic arthritis clinic of Charité’s strategic development. As part structure is also of direct benefit to patients, of a program that has been carefully timed who have access to the latest modern to avoid disruption to services, some of technology and medical devices. Continuous Immune disorders clinic Charité’s most famous buildings (such as the investment in Charité’s infrastructure ensures ‘Bettenhochhaus’ ward building on Campus that Europe’s largest university hospital Mitte) have undergone substantial renovation can continue to offer the highest standards Facial prosthetics clinic and modernization. In addition to funding of medical care, research, and teaching. Muscular disorders clinic

22 From ‘pest house’ to Europe’s largest university hospital 23 Medicine in all its facets — 3Charité’s pillars of excellence

Highest standards of medical care

As the leading university hospital in the heart of Europe, Charité is renowned for its A full spectrum of treatment options in its treatment figures, which indicate that consistently high quality across all areas of activity. Every day, its staff members provide As a tertiary care institution comprising a large proportion of its inpatients are from an excellent standard of medical care, demonstrate outstanding competence in nursing, more than 100 different clinics and depart- beyond the local area. For these patients, conduct research that gains international recognition, and train the next generation of health ments, and covering the entire spectrum the decision to undergo treatment at Charité of modern medicine, Charité is able to offer is a conscious one, and one made in careful care professionals using innovative teaching concepts. treatments for a diverse range of medical consultation with their general practitioners. conditions. From allergy and immunology to Charité maintains an exceptionally close interconnection between these four areas of vascular surgery, our diagnostic and treat- Defining complementary research priorities activity, which have an excellent reputation throughout Germany and beyond. This close ment options set the standards for other In 2003, three previously independent uni- interconnection becomes apparent in many different ways, and represents a major reason health care providers. versity hospitals successfully joined together why Charité is counted among the top-ranked institutions in Europe. to become what is now known as Charité. The sheer size of Charité alone brings This development resulted in the duplication considerable benefits to its patients. With of services in a number of specialties, and a large number of world-class experts and called for an urgent structural reorganization an extraordinary breadth of expertise, the in order to ensure the efficiency of this new hospital is able to offer the very highest large-scale operation and maintain its high standards across many of its specialties. This professional standards. The hospital’s mana- is because different departments are not led gement team responded to this challenge by just one qualified specialist, but benefit by developing a strategy that would organize from the joint expertise of a number of the different areas of clinical focus in a leading experts, all of whom share responsi- coordinated and complementary fashion. bility for the well-being of their patients. It is The concept behind this strategy was based thanks to this pool of specialists that Charité on the analysis of population data to identify has earned its outstanding reputation — one the most important medical conditions and that reaches well beyond local, regional, and diseases affecting the general population. national borders. This excellent reputation Results from these analyses were then used for a high standard of care is also reflected to guide the reorganization of the three

Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 25 ine Transplants rvous system I dic Wo Ne nfe Me m cti er en on c a /I an n n C d fll c a h m m il Emergencies — when time is of the essence d a r t e i n o n C When someone is having a heart attack or stroke, or have

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i d and ensures they have immediate access to treatments which, in the past, only became available once they had reached hospital. hospital campuses — Campus Charité Mitte, tise of specialists from Orthopedics and With its early emergency response teams at the site of the accident or emergency, Campus Benjamin Franklin, and Campus Neurosurgery. Campus Virchow-Klinikum’s followed by seamless emergency care delivered by an interdisciplinary care team at Virchow-Klinikum. Each of the three sites main focus is on Women’s Health, Pediatrics, the hospital, Charité is able to optimize both continuity of care and outcomes. now specializes in the treatment of a specific and Adolescent Medicine. The campus is also group of medical conditions. Due to this home to Charité’s interdisciplinary cancer Further information: notfallmedizin.charite.de emergence of distinct centers of excellence services, whose efforts in the fight against for each of the medical specialties, our cancer are optimized by combining the patients are now able to benefit from a much expertise of experts from Internal Medicine, greater concentration of clinical expertise. Surgery, Gynecology, and Radiation Therapy. quickly identified and addressed in a tar- Outstanding infection prevention Using a strategy of targeted investment that The third area of clinical focus is the field of geted manner. Proud of its commitment to and hygiene is primarily focused on further developing Cardiovascular Medicine. The core competen- the highest standards of quality, Charité is a Hospital hygiene forms an important relevant centers of excellence, each campus cies on Campus Benjamin Franklin center member of the quality in medicine initiative, component of any hospital’s quality manage- is able to offer the very latest in treatment around degenerative diseases, and issues ‘Initiative Qualitätsmedizin (IQM)’, whose ment strategy. Even minor shortcomings or technology. The services offered at each of affecting people in the second half of life. member institutions represent the paragons carelessness can lead to infections that the three campus sites are now organized in Rather than exclusively focusing on issues of best practice in medicine and patient pose a risk to the health of both staff and such a way as to ensure that they fully traditionally associated with gerontology and safety. Charité’s quality management system patients. On each of the campuses, specia- complement each other. geriatric medicine, Charité’s experts specia- enforces standards that go well beyond legal lists in Hygiene and Environmental Medicine, In addition, each of the sites also continues lize in the treatment of degenerative brain requirements. Approximately half of Charité’s as well as full-time hygiene experts, monitor to operate as a fully-functioning hospital in diseases and dementia. facilities already comply with either ISO 9001 the implementation of hygiene measures, its own right. Wherever reasonable and (one of the most highly-regarded quality ma- and ensure that staff receive regular infection practicable, research activities are allocated Constant Quality Management nagement standards) or other similar stan- prevention and control training. Charité’s according to specialty, and are hosted by the Patients rightfully to expect their hospital dards. Results of the certification process — hand hygiene initiative ‘Aktion Saubere campus with the relevant clinical focus. to meet the highest standards of quality which includes a comprehensive assessment Hände‘ regularly earns the hospital re-certifi- across the board. Charité uses a comprehen- of departmental processes and procedures, cation as a leader in hand hygiene. In 2013, Areas of clinical focus — an overview sive quality management system to ensure and of the measures aimed at ensuring con- The World Health Organization (WHO recog- Campus Charité Mitte houses Charité’s that patients benefit from consistently high sistent improvements in quality — confirmed nized Charité as a ‘Global Hand Hygiene experts in the fields of Neuroscience, ENT, standards. A wide range of measures ensure that all of the relevant facilities meet very Expert Centre‘. Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, while that the highest standards of care are main- high standards of quality. the Spine Center adds the combined exper- tained, while areas of improvement are

26 Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 27 Who cares?

The history of nursing is the subject of a current exhibition at Berlin’s Museum of Medical History at Charité. Under the title ‘Who cares?’, the exhibition explores the history of nursing at Charité, and how the profession has changed since the hospital’s foundation. The exhibition also explores the question of the future of nursing in light of an ever-increasing demand for nursing and care services. After an extremely successful start in Berlin, the exhibition has traveled to many other locations in Germany and abroad. It has been very well received, and has attracted large numbers of visitors.

Further information: www.bmm-charite.de/114.html

Nursing competence

Patient-centered care as our guiding ted, the questionnaire is available in ten additional certifications, which include staff, Charité is actively committed to principle different languages, including Arabic and qualifications in respiratory care nursing, promoting the transfer of nursing education Expert patient care and support is one of Vietnamese. Systematic analysis of all mentoring in nursing practice, and as a to the higher education sector. As early as Charité’s defining features. Every day, responses allows results (including instances health care quality representative. In addition 2004, Charité joined forces with Evange Charité’s nursing staff members prove that, of both praise or criticism, and suggestions) to offering continuing education and training lische Fachhochschule Berlin, a protestant even in a hospital as large as Charité, which to be used to inform future quality assurance for existing nursing staff members, the Health technical college offering a ‘dual’ Bachelor’s deals with approximately 800,000 inpatient measures. This ensures that results contribu- Care Academy also offers courses for the degree program in Nursing, i.e. a program and outpatient cases a year, it is possible te directly to measures aimed at consistent next generation of health care professionals. that combines both theory and practice. to achieve patient-centered care. Charité’s and sustained improvements in patient The Academy offers more than 600 training Seven years later, a private technical college, nursing staff members strive to create an satisfaction. places across 8 separate health care professi Akkon-Hochschule für Humanwissenschaften, atmosphere that will allow both patients ons, with approximately 350 training places welcomed its first nursing students onto its and their family members to feel actively Maintaining and enhancing nursing available for those hoping to enter the dual Health Care and Nursing Management supported and involved at all times. While competence nursing profession. This makes Charité one degree program. Both of these degree all of the staff members have a high level In an effort to maintain and enhance of the three largest training institutions for options prepare students for managerial of expertise in nursing, they constantly work current high standards in nursing, Charité health care professionals within the region, roles within health care and nursing. Aside at further enhancing their skills through offers a comprehensive program of continu- and allows it to almost single-handedly from being involved in these cooperative regular continued professional development. ing education and training that is organized meet the demand for new nurses within the arrangements, Charité is also in the process Nursing quality forms part of the core areas by the Health Care Academy and available Berlin-Brandenburg area. of developing a Bachelor of Nursing program. regularly monitored and assessed as part to all members of staff. Courses allow staff This will allow Charité to maintain the highest of Charité’s quality management program. members to enhance specific nursing-related University-based nursing programs standards of expertise in nursing, and help Measures aimed at evaluating patient satis- skill sets, but also offer training in communi- Charité places particular emphasis on the resolve the current shortage in qualified faction represent one of the main sources of cation, management, and teaching. Staff professionalization of nursing. In Germany, nursing staff members. information in this regard. At the end of their members also have the option of studying current demographic changes within the stay in the hospital, all inpatients are asked for nationally-recognized qualifications, in- population, coupled with increasingly rapid to complete a questionnaire that aims at cluding in the fields of critical care nursing advances in medicine, mean that there is ascertaining their level of satisfaction with and anesthesia care, psychiatry, surgery, a growing need for qualified nurses, and treatment. In order to ensure that the views oncology, and hygiene. Shorter-term courses nurses in managerial roles. In response to of international patients are also represen- are available for those hoping to gain this growing need for highly-qualified nursing

28 Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 29 Translational research — research for the benefit of patients

New methods of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment

Findings with relevance for clinical practice

Close interlinking

Excellence in research Basic research Clinical research

Research of international significance Listed at the top of various rankings NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence were able to promising new treatments. Charité’s commit- Charité has succeeded in carving out an The German Research Foundation’s (DFG) defend their previous positions, the second ment to patient-centered research is evident excellent reputation for research, both annual funding report — which lists instances phase of the program also saw the Berlin in the sheer number of its translational nationally and internationally. Its position of research successes already accomplished, School for Integrative Oncology successfully research projects, as well as its involvement as one of the leading medical schools is as well as highlighting the future potential of apply for the status of approved graduate in three different health care centers that are the result of the outstanding work of nearly university-based facilities — is evidence that school. In addition to managing these three dedicated to the organization’s chosen areas 4,000 researchers across more than 1,000 Charité commands a unique position among projects, Charité also has a major involve- of research focus. One beacon of translatio- research projects and working groups. In national research organizations. A simple ment in two further Excellence Initiative- nal research at Charité that deserves order to strengthen this position, Charité glance at the various DFG performance approved ventures. These include the ‘Mind mentioning is the Experimental and Clinical rewards strong performance and supports indicators is enough to prove that Charité — and Brain’ Graduate School, as well as Research Center (ECRC), which was establis- areas of special research focus through Universitätsmedizin Berlin comes out as the substantial contributions toward a project hed in 2007 as a joint venture between targeted resource use. A major part of clear winner overall. Charité also commands currently in the planning stages at Humboldt- Charité and the Max Delbrück Center for Charité’s research strategy is a focus on first place in terms of the level of federal Universität zu Berlin, which includes the Molecular Medicine (MDC). At the ECRC, both harnessing the potential of research that funding it has been able to secure for health development of an interdisciplinary research basic and clinical researchers work together bridges disciplines. As this is the area most care-related research and innovation. institute for the life sciences. in pursuit of a common goal, namely to likely to yield significant scientific develop- Similarly, the organization comes top in ensure that patients will be able to benefit ments over the next few years, Charité places terms of health care funding received as part Targeting translational research as quickly as possible from the new methods particular emphasis on interdisciplinary of the European Commission’s framework The concept of ’translational research‘ is at of diagnosis, prevention, and treatment cooperation, including projects that involve programs for research. Charité’s success the heart of research at Charité, and refers developed at the center. Coupled with the different clinical facilities, and studies that during the second phase of The German to the transfer of knowledge from laboratory technological advances achieved through combine basic and clinical research. All of Excellence Initiative, which is organized by to clinical application (translation from bench systematic research into the molecular this is evidence of Charité’s ongoing commit- the German federal and state governments, to bedside). Charité is committed to actively changes associated with a wide range of ment to further developing its areas of and provides support for the country’s best promoting this process, in order to allow diseases, this approach has been instrumen- special research focus, which were first university-based research facilities, is further patients to benefit more quickly from major tal in shaping the area of systems medicine identified by Charité’s senior management evidence of the outstanding quality of advances within the area of basic research over the past few years. This new, pioneering in 2004, and which will be discussed in more research at Charité. While one of Charité’s at Charité. Researchers and physicians are concept is at the heart of Charité’s decision detail in section 4. Graduate Schools, ‘Berlin-Brandenburg working together closely to ensure that to go down the path of an institutional School for Regenerative Therapies’, and the theoretical findings can be translated into collaboration with the MDC, which resulted

30 Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 31 Molecular Medicine Applied Epidemiology Consumer Health Care Public Health Health and Society: International Gender Studies Berlin Cerebrovascular Medicine New Revised Medical Curriculum Dentistry International Health Bachelor’s Degree in Health Care Sciences Epidemiology Medical Neurosciences — International Graduate Program Toxicology

Cutting-edge concepts in teaching and learning

in the Berlin Institute of Health (BIH). efficient completion of the various man- Latest trends in teaching and learning programs, the new curriculum allows students Between 2013 and 2018, €300 million of datory stages of clinical drug development. Charité is one of the most prestigious medical to gain practical medical experience as early state and federal funding will allow the BIH With its full spectrum of services, the CRO is training institutions in the world. One of the as their first semester. The first few semes- to develop into what will be a unique new particularly well-placed to ensure the timely main reasons why Charité stands out from its ters of traditional degree courses focus structure within the biomedical research and successful completion of studies that competitors, both at home and abroad, is its exclusively on the teaching of theoretical arena. form part of the early phase of clinical drug ongoing commitment to improving the out- knowledge, with students not being allowed development. standing quality of its curriculum through to even come into contact with patients. In A comprehensive service portfolio for the incorporation of new teaching concepts. contrast, the new curriculum allows students research-based pharmaceutical companies The ability to respond to societal changes is to gain clinical experience from the outset. Clinical trials, which are aimed at investi- particularly important in this regard, and gating the tolerability, safety, and efficacy of allows the curriculum to acknowledge While this represents a truly innovative struc- new medicines, represent an important stage significant developments, such as the impact ture, which allows students to put theoretical in the development of new treatment of an aging population, and changes in the knowledge into practice, the scheduling of options. University hospitals, such as Charité, physician-patient relationship (which is now theoretical and practical modules is not the are ideal venues for this particular stage in marked by a trend toward an increased only exceptional feature. The taught com- the research and development process. This emphasis on the provision of information ponents have been completely reorganized is because they are uniquely well-positioned and advice). A conscious drive to ensure that and new components added. While previous in terms of their access to large numbers of such changes are reflected in the curriculum scheduling saw course modules divided potential study participants. The foundation ensures that medical training at Charité according to medical specialties, the New of Charité Research Organisation (CRO) remains both relevant and up to date. Revised Medical Curriculum has replaced created a support services platform for these with cross-subject modules. Aside from research-based (originator) companies that The New Revised Medical Curriculum — attending traditional lectures and seminars, are looking for expert assistance in the restructuring medical education students also learn, and practice what they planning and conduct of clinical trials. The The New Revised Medical Curriculum have learned, in small groups. From the very CRO, which specializes in the early phase (Modellstudiengang) is the crown jewel beginning of the course, students also of clinical drug development and has its own of medical teaching at Charité. Since the receive training in other important skills, clinical trial facilities, offers companies the fall of 2010/2011, all new medical students such as how to communicate effectively with support necessary to ensure the quick and have been enrolled on this new curriculum both patients and their family members. program. In contrast to other degree Research-related training starts as early as

32 Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 33 Learning Center — supporting students and teaching staff

In the spring of 2012, Charité opened its first Learning Center — a learning support facility specifically designed to provide students with adequate learning spaces. The Center, which also aims to support teaching staff through an optimized teaching environment, extends over 1,200 m2, and provides students and teaching staff members with facilities that are ideally suited to supporting both independent study and course-based learning.

The Learning Center also offers role-play-based training in clinical communication, which helps students improve their communication and diagnostic skills. Good interpersonal skills allow physicians to communicate more effectively with patients. From the very start of the course, these play a central role in the training of the next generation of physicians.

Further information: lernzentrum.charite.de

New Revised Medical Curriculum modules (by semester)

Introduction The building blocks Cell biology Signaling and infor- 1 of life mation transmission Communication, interaction, and Growth, tissues, Health and society Blood and the immu- Good research teamwork the second semester, and includes mandato- dedicated to the continued development of 2 organs ne system practice I

ry research-based modules and practicals. measures that are aimed at improving the Skin Movement Cardiovascular Nutrition, 3 system digestion, Fundamental quality of teaching, thereby allowing Charité metabolism aspects of medical theory and Germany’s first center to specialize in to retain its number one position in the rank- Respiration Kidneys, Nervous system Sensory organs 3 years 4 practice medical teaching and educational research ings. In these efforts, they have the support electrolytes One of the highest priorities at Charité is the of leading medical education professionals Mechanisms of Mechanisms Mechanisms of Mechanisms of 5 disease — Interactions of disease — disease — disease — quality of medical teaching. This is why, since who sit on the center’s scientific advisory between genome, Infectious diseases Neoplasia Pain and psychology Communication, metabolism and interaction, and its conception, the New Revised Medical board. immune system teamwork Curriculum has received expert support from 6 Final module Sexuality and the Good research Consolidation/ the Dieter Scheffner Fachzentrum, a research Additional courses Section I endocrine system practice II Mandatory option I center that is dedicated to medical teaching Aside from its degree course in medicine, 7 Thoracic Abdominal Disorders of the up- Consolidation/ Fundamental and evidence-based education research. Charité also offers a wide range of other diseases disorders per/lower extremities Mandatory option II aspects of medical theory and The center — which was founded by Charité courses, including dentistry and a Bachelor’s Diseases of Neurological disor- Psychiatric Consolidation/ 8 the head, neck, ders disorders Mandatory option III practice in 2009 to support the professionalization of Degree in Health Care Sciences. The latter, and endocrine system medical training, and is the first of its kind in which is open to applicants who have already

2 years Pregnancy, Diseases affecting Gender-specific Consolidation/ Germany — represents a beacon of progress completed training in care- or therapy- 9 birth, newborns, children and diseases Mandatory option IV

PBL — patient-based teaching and clinical examination modules examination and clinical teaching PBL — patient-based Communication, in medical teaching. This innovative facility based professions, combines elements of infants adolescents interaction, and Aging, death and General medici- Block rotations in Good research teamwork is being supported by the Bologna Process’ the biosciences, social sciences, and human 10 dying, intensive care, ne, ‘paperwork’, Internal Medicine, practice III Future of Higher Education initiative, which sciences, and teaches a broad range of palliative care emergency medicine, Surgery, Gynecology, areas of overlap and Pediatrics is funded by the Volkswagen Foundation methodological skills. To enroll in this course, and the Merkator Foundation, and aims to candidates must have completed relevant Final year rotation 1 year strengthen standards of teaching in higher professional training, in addition to holding a education. qualification for entrance to higher education.

The center supports teaching staff in imple- Applicants who already hold a degree, and pursuing further study at the master's and Consumer Health Care, means that menting course curricula, and offers a wide would like to gain the skills required to degree level. The sheer range and variety Charité holds a unique position among range of services to support and enhance pursue highly-specialist roles within the field of courses offered, which include degrees medical schools. teaching competence. The center is also of health care sciences, have the option of in International Health, Molecular Medicine,

34 Medicine in all its facets — Charité‘s pillars of excellence 35 Health care priorities and research foci with international 4recognition

Neuroscience

As a result not only of its history but also its sheer size, Charité covers all medical specialties. Transdisciplinary and translational reduce the mortality and morbidity associa- In order to ensure that it can maintain and enhance its current position as an international priorities ted with stroke — a condition that, in Germa- leader in medical care and research, Charité is now focusing its efforts on six areas of clinical In terms of research and treatment, Charité ny, affects approximately 270,000 people focus, namely cardiology, oncology, neuroscience, regenerative therapies, genetics, and is one of the top university hospitals in every year. As an integrated research and the field of neurological disorders. It offers a treatment center, the CSB has been receiving immunology. distinctly translational and transdisciplinary funding from the Federal Ministry of Educa- approach, with many of its excellent neuro tion and Research since 2008. This funding Aside from implementing a strategy of targeted investment within these areas, Charité science-based research projects managing has allowed it to produce high-quality patient- also actively pursues cooperation with influential external partners. High priority is given to closely integrate patient-oriented and oriented and clinical research into stroke. Ten to research areas that offer an interdisciplinary approach and close integration of basic and basic research. These projects embody the different research groups are currently con- clinical research. While one of the aims is to ensure that new research findings are quickly ideals of translational research, providing a centrating their efforts on developing and/or translated into clinical practice, the training of the next generation of physicians and seamless transfer of knowledge from bedside refining new treatment methods within three to bench, and back to bedside. Successful major topic areas: how to protect the brain, researchers also plays a significant role in these areas. collaborations between neuroscience resear- how to prevent complications, and how to chers and experts from cardiology and immu- achieve the functional rehabilitation of people nology reflect the transdisciplinary priorities with stroke. within Charité’s neuroscience division, and include research projects into complex disor- In an effort to improve conditions for ders such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, research, CSB has introduced its own orga- heart failure, and Parkinson’s disease. nizational infrastructure, which consists of different functional units (referred to as The CSB — a track record of outstanding ‘Modules’). One example is the Trial Team, research also referred to as the ‘Study Team’, which One of Charité’s leading neuroscience-based has been ISO 9001 certified since 2012, and research facilities is the Center for Stroke that supports the planning and conduct of Research Berlin (CSB). Co-founded by Charité stroke-based research studies. The Trial Team and the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular has specific expertise in the management Medicine (MDC) in 2005, the CSB aims to of clinical trials, and coordinates these on

36 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 37 Research area A Research area B Research area C Master’s Degree in Cerebrovascular Medicine

When it comes to training the next generation of neuroscience researchers, Charité offers targeted solutions. Since 2009, the Center for Stroke Research Berlin (CSB) has offered a Master’s Degree in Cerebrovascular Clinical Research. Mechanisms of Endogenous This two-year course is aimed at members of different professional groups, and covers damage CNS protection Regeneration all of the aspects of a translational approach to stroke care, from basic and clinical research to the treatment of patients with stroke. Research area D Research area E Research area F The course, which is taught in English by renowned international experts, provides students with the necessary theoretical and practical skills to allow them to successfully plan and conduct research studies. Molecular Interactions mechanisms This course is evidence of Charité’s commitment to between the Disorders of affecting ion promoting the development of young researchers nervous and nervous system channels and interested in specializing in the area of immune systems development transporters stroke research. The seven NeuroCure research areas Research area G

behalf of researchers and partners from covers Berlin and its surrounding areas, industry. The unit’s ultra-modern 3T MRI comprising approximately 40 members ran- scanner, which is housed in the immediate ging from acute treatment centers to centers Plasticity vicinity of the Stroke Unit (the treatment providing rehabilitation and follow-up care. unit for patients with acute stroke), plays a significant role in stroke-related research The NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence studies. This device enables physicians to The NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence is accurately measure blood flow inside the another example of Charité’s outstanding brains of people presenting with symptoms neuroscience facilities. NeuroCure is a as to ensure that the overall responsibility for and the German Rheumatism Research of stroke, without subjecting patients to research consortium established as part the relevant research area is shared between Center (DRFZ). Together, these partners work lengthy intra-hospital transports. In the area of the German Excellence Initiative, and in a basic science researcher and a practicing toward the common aim of neuroscience- of health care delivery, the CSB has an active receipt of both federal and state funding. physician. In order to speed up the trans based research endeavors becoming more role in the Berlin Stroke Alliance (BSA), a Its main aim is the transfer of knowledge lation of research developments into clinical closely intertwined. They also actively promo- network of stroke care providers originally from basic neuroscience to clinical applica- practice, Charité set up the NeuroCure te the expansion of neuroscience research established by Charité. By facilitating the tion (bench to bedside), but also back to Clinical Research Center (NCRC). Through capacity by launching, and providing support exchange of knowledge between the different the laboratory (bedside to bench). Its overall clinical trials that are either initiated by to, new professorships and groups of young agencies involved in stroke care, this network research focus centers on the study of NeuroCure researchers or industrial partners, researchers, and by providing researchers of stroke care providers is now successfully neurological disorders, such as stroke and the NCRC is able to offer patients access to with highly-modern infrastructure. working toward improving the treatment of epilepsy, as well as other disorders affecting new treatments and diagnostic methods. people with stroke. The BSA offers an impor- brain development. NeuroCure researchers tant platform aimed at promoting the discus- are also committed to mental health re- NeuroCure is a joint initiative of Charité and sion and implementation of new stroke treat- search, studying a range of conditions from its two constituent universities (Humboldt ment concepts. Establishment of the BSA, autism and depression to schizophrenia. Universität zu Berlin and Freie Universität which has been registered as a non-profit Over 45 NeuroCure working groups are Berlin) as well as three highly prestigious, organization since early 2015, has resulted involved in research aimed at gaining a better non-university-based establishments. These in an infrastructure that puts in place per- understanding of how the nervous system include the Max Delbrück Center for Molecu- manent treatment and support services for works. All of these are based on a trans- lar Medicine Berlin-Buch (MDC), the Leibniz- patients with stroke. The Stroke Alliance lational approach, and set up in such a way Institut für Molekulare Pharmakologie (FMP),

38 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 39 patient’s quality of life, including the patient’s Excellence Project ‘Berlin School of psychological and physical health, and consi- Integrative Oncology (BSIO)’ ders his/her needs in terms of social and The Berlin School of Integrative Oncology spiritual support. It also specifically addres- (BSIO) is the flagship of Charité’s oncology- ses the need for involving members of the based further education and training pro- patient’s family. gram. The BSIO — which is a joint initiative of Charité, Humboldt Universität, Freie Univer Patients who are treated at the CCCC benefit sität, the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular from the center’s close links to research, Medicine, and other partner organizations — including its involvement in a range of clinical offers a three-year, oncology-based integrati- trials and translational research projects. ve doctoral program that is aimed at talented This enables the CCCC to offer the most up- young life sciences researchers, physicians, to-date treatment methods available, both and social sciences experts. The Graduate nationally and internationally, since the School is at the interface of biological majority of its clinical oncologists are also sciences research and clinical application. actively involved in cancer research. Follow- By combining the expertise of hematologists, up care, cooperation with the patient’s non- oncologists, molecular biologists, surgeons, Oncology hospital-based physicians, and access to and other experts, it is able to offer the next self-help groups all have an important role generation of talented researchers the to play as part of the CCCC’s integrative necessary theoretical training and practical treatment concept. experience that will enable them to contribu- Fighting cancer together Cancer Center (CCCC). The CCCC is the first te to the development of new diagnostic and Charité’s oncology division is extremely highly German cancer center to have been certified A platform for molecular oncology research treatment methods. What is special about regarded, both within Germany and beyond. by The German Cancer Society as a treat- In 2006, as part of an effort to promote basic this postgraduate degree course, which has This reputation is the result of a particularly ment center for all common and rare cancers. oncology research, Charité founded the a truly international focus, is the academic close interlinking of all aspects of oncology- The center’s oncology expertise has also been Molecular Cancer Research Center (MKFZ). composition of its students. The fact that life based medical care and research. Patients recognized by German Cancer Aid, which The MKFZ is a centralized research facility, sciences researchers and physicians are diagnosed with cancer benefit from the high- classed the CCCC as an Oncology Center of combining all of Charité’s experimental taught together is the result of a conscious est standard of care, an achievement that is Excellence, and has been providing financial research groups with an interest in molecular decision, and the belief that early exposure the direct result of combining an interdiscipli- support since 2009. oncology under one roof. It is a networking to interdisciplinary thinking is likely to foster nary treatment approach with the latest re- platform particularly aimed at externally- a new research culture that will embrace search findings and state-of-the-art technolo- All stages of a patient’s treatment are coordi- funded projects (by groups or individuals) interdisciplinary exchange. In addition to this, gy. Our researchers tackle the most pressing nated by the CCCC. This means that from that are involved in the development of students benefit from excellent research challenges in oncology research, including diagnosis and treatment planning to the potential new treatment methods for a wide opportunities, a mentoring and coaching treatment resistance and the development of delivery and completion of treatment, patients range of different cancers. program, and technological facilities that are tailored cancer treatment through molecular enjoy the care and support of an interdiscipli- second to none. analysis. This approach ensures that experi- nary team of specialists. Treatment planning The MKFZ also offers all oncology-based mental laboratory-based projects and clinical is done on a case-by-case basis that, depen- research centers in the Greater Berlin area The merits of the BSIO’s unorthodox studies can benefit from each other’s ding on the individual patient’s needs, may opportunities to get involved in an intra-regi- approach to promoting the interdisciplinary advances. include surgery, radiation therapy, and/or onal exchange of knowledge. This includes training of oncology researchers have been drug-based treatment. Psycho-oncology and seminars, workshops, conferences, and recognized by both the federal and state Interdisciplinary care social support will also be offered. In symposia, some of which are held in colla governments, who are providing funding As early as 2007, Charité began the process the case of patients with advanced disease, boration with the CCCC, and are also aimed support as part of the Excellence Initiative of reorganizing the clinical and research where the cancer is no longer treatable, it at supporting the training and continuing program, and in recognition of Charité’s activities of specialists involved in the treat- also addresses palliative care needs. The aim education of MKFZ’s next generation of commitment to developing an internationally- ment of patients with cancer. The process of individualized treatment planning is to cancer researchers. renowned research environment dedicated culminated in the creation of one of the first alleviate the severity of the patient’s pain to fostering top-quality research. comprehensive cancer treatment centers in and any other disease- or treatment-related Germany — the Charité Comprehensive symptoms. It focuses on improving the

40 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 41 Regenerative therapies

Interdisciplinary research in action involved in this pioneering field of research. Translational research center with an the work of its more than 30 different One of Charité’s important areas of research An internationally-renowned translational innovative approach research groups and areas. This approach focus, and one that has garnered interna- research center, the BCRT is the result of The translational center’s research focuses ensures the efficient translation of research tional recognition, is the area of regenerative an alliance between Charité and Helmholtz- on disorders affecting the immune, musculo- findings into diagnostic methods, as well as therapies. Regenerative medicine is a Zentrum Geesthacht, which specializes in skeletal, and cardiovascular systems, for medical treatments and products. The center relatively young discipline that is dedicated the development of biological materials. which current treatment options remain has a dedicated staff with a remit for identify- to treating disease through strengthening BCRT boasts a team of over 250 staff, who wholly inadequate. At the BCRT, clinicians ing research ideas with high marketing poten- the body’s own self-healing and regenerative complement each other in terms of skills and researcher work together to develop tial. They are also responsible for providing potential. The central question is how bio- and expertise, and include medical specialists innovative approaches, treatments, and intensive project and quality management logically active factors, cells, and biological in addition to specialists from engineering products that can be used to manipulate the support throughout every stage of the materials can be used to stimulate and and the natural sciences. The center com- body’s own regenerative processes. Their project. With its innovative organizational enhance the body’s regenerative processes. bines basic research, clinical research areas, work is based around the use of immune structures, the BCRT sets new standards for Charité-based research exploring the body’s and technology platforms, in an innovative cells, adult stem cells, biological materials, translational research in regenerative thera- natural regenerative potential brings together research structure that sets new standards and bioactive factors, which are used either pies. The BCRT’s close partnership with other experts from a wide range of medical special- for the field of regenerative therapies and on their own or in combination. The aim of institutions from the fields of health care, ties. Their aim is to develop treatments that related research areas. the BCRT is to develop treatment methods life sciences, and health economics has been can repair diseased or damaged tissues and, that will meet the needs of the individual a particularly important factor in the center’s by restoring their function, improve and BCRT staff, who represent a wide range of patient. In this manner, Charité is promoting success, and sees it work closely with statu- maintain the patient’s quality of life. Re- qualifications and expertise, are based across a distinctly patient-oriented approach to tory health insurance providers, monitoring searchers use diagnostic markers to produce two different sites, namely the institute’s treatment, which takes into account the and regulatory authorities, as well as compa- treatments that are tailored to the individual southern site on Campus Virchow-Klinikum, individual patient’s regenerative potential. nies from the biotechnology, medical technol- patient. These are known as personalized where staff work in close proximity to ogy, and pharmaceutical sectors. Involvement treatments. Charité’s various Departments and research In addition to its three main research areas, in regional, national, and international net- facilities, and the Institute of Biomaterial which deal with disorders of the immune, works ensures that the center’s researchers Since its foundation in 2006, the Berlin- Science, a second BCRT site, which is located musculoskeletal, and cardiovascular systems, are in constant exchange with other research Brandenburg Center for Regenerative on Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht’s Teltow the BCRT also has a number of interdiscipli- organizations from the field of regenerative Therapies (BCRT) has brought together the Campus in Berlin-Brandenburg. nary technology platforms. Interdisciplinary therapies. Charité also ensures that its expertise of all Charité staff members cooperation is the guiding principle behind experts contribute to the public dialog

42 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 43 BSRT — training the next generation

The fact that each of the scientific disciplines seems to have its own unique language can easily turn into a stumbling block for interdisciplinary research. The Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies (BSRT) — which is based on the concept of the BCRT, and was a joint initiative of Charité and Humboldt-Universität Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, the University of Potsdam, as well as other research institutes within the Berlin and Brandenburg areas — was founded in order to ensure that future generations of researchers receive the best training to prepare them for successful careers within the field of translational research. The BSRT is a graduate school that has garnered international recognition, and which provides training not merely within the field of regenerative medicine, but also in other subject areas.

For students pursuing doctoral degrees within the natural or materials sciences, the BSRT provides ideal training opportunities to prepare them for a career in either academia or industry. Physicians pursuing postgraduate qualifications can enroll on the BSRT’s ‘Clinical Scientist’ training scheme. This scheme, which combines ample research-based opportunities with training in one of the medical specialties, places particular emphasis on a translational approach to research in order to enable the next generation of clinical researchers to overcome the stumbling blocks Cardiology traditionally associated with interdisciplinary research. The BSRT is an interdisciplinary training center of international renown, and has been recognized as an approved gradu- Medical care and research of outstanding disease, which means that heart valves can ate school as part of the German Excellence quality be replaced using a catheter, and without Initiative. One of the best examples of why Charité the need for cardiopulmonary bypass (a has such an outstanding reputation within heart-lung machine). Even in cases where Further information: www.b-crt.de and www.bsrt.de the medical field, both nationally and inter- open heart surgery is contraindicated, these nationally, is its cardiology division, where techniques ensure that patients can receive both medical care and research benefit from state-of-the-art heart valves, which can be the contributions of leading experts in the chosen to perfectly match the individual field of cardiovascular medicine. Within requirements. Other treatments used include regarding the risks and potential benefits clinical cardiology, Charité’s staff members minimally-invasive interventions involving the of new treatment methods (such as stem have access to treatment methods that are coronary arteries, and innovative procedures cell therapy). Aside from ensuring that so up to date that they remain unavailable such as left atrial appendage closure. In strict Charité meets its social responsibilities, at most other university hospitals, while adherence to all national and international its commitment to providing information research endeavors are characteristically recommendations, all of these procedures about potential applications also allows it integrative, combining the contributions of arecarried out in hybrid operating theaters. to advance the ongoing debate about different specialties. The sheer number of patients receiving regenerative therapies. treatment at Charité, combined with the First-class treatment methods ongoing drive to develop and refine existing Charité offers treatments for all types of procedures, allows Charité to continue to cardiovascular disorders. Treatments offered develop and expand its expertise in the field include conventional, but also interventional of interventional treatments. and minimally-invasive, procedures, with the latter including treatments that are currently This commitment to expertise is also illustra- only available at a small number of selected ted by Charité’s close cooperation with the university hospitals. These include catheter- German Heart Center Berlin (DHZB), and based, minimally-invasive interventions to the steady drive toward a ‘university heart replace aortic valves or treat mitral valve center’. Allowing both institutions to focus on

44 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 45 Visualizing the beating heart

Researchers from Charité and MDC are currently working on another challenge — finding a way of watching the human heart at work in fascinating detail, as a result of high resolution imaging. Their efforts center around one of the most powerful MRI scanners in the world. The scanner, which was acquired by the MDC with support from Charité, offers researchers a host of new possibilities. There are only four other centers in the world that have managed to produce images of the beating heart using comparable field strength. There is hope that new technological developments produced by the MDC’s Experimental Physics Working Group will soon make it possible to produce images of the heart at the microscopic scale. The joint research efforts of cardiologists and physicists from Charité and MDC may be able to open new doors in this field.

their respective areas of expertise, this At Charité, the area of cardiovascular Cutting-edge developments in cardiovas- These include a long-term study involving venture also involves a degree of restructu- imaging, which is used to accurately diagnose cular research 5,000 patients, which is aimed at investiga- ring, which will see Charité focus exclusively and classify types of heart disease, produces The Charité Center for Cardiovascular ting gender-related differences in patients on cardiology, while DHZB will take over first-class results in cardiac MRI imaging. Research (CCR), which has been in operation with cardiovascular disease. all surgical interventions. The Campus Berlin Buch-based cardiac since 2003, is home to both experts from MRI working group (AG Kardiale MRT) has cardiology and numerous internal medicine- The center’s specialist Arrhythmia Unit successfully developed a number of new based specialties, including nephrology focuses on different types of cardiac arr- techniques that allow the exact evaluation and angiology. Researchers from more than Unique in Germany hythmia. At Charité, the majority of patients of damage to the heart muscle (myocardium). 20 working groups are conducting research with known arrhythmias, such as atrial Having since been incorporated into inter into the causes of particularly common Cardiologists at Charité are using a fibrillation or ventricular arrhythmia, are national guidelines, these techniques are cardiovascular disorders, while concurrently unique technique to treat patients with treated with minimally-invasive electrophy- setting new standards in clinical practice. developing innovative treatment methods. thromboangiitis obliterans (Buerger‘s disease). This disorder, which typically siology interventions, which use catheter- In cooperation with the German Heart Center, The outstanding expertise of Charité’s occurs in young, male smokers, is charac- based techniques to manage arrhythmias. the group is in the process of developing cardiovascular division has recently received terized by inflammation that causes new echocardiography procedures, which the official endorsement of the Federal vascular changes in the blood vessels of Last but not least, Charité is also known include real-time 3-D echocardiography. Ministry of Education and Research. Along- the arms and legs. for its innovative device-based therapy. In Close proximity to the Experimental Clinical side partners such as the MDC, Charité’s addition to implantable cardioverter defibril- Research Center (ECRC) — which is jointly cardiovascular research division succeeded By using immune absorption — a specialist lators (ICDs) — which are used in patients operated by Charité and the Max Delbrück in securing this endorsement, following an blood purification technology — physicians with life-threatening arrhythmias — and the Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) — as open competition aimed at promoting at Charité can remove the antibodies from the blood that are responsible latest in pacemaker technology, this also well as the outstanding quality of existing strategic cooperation between leading for causing the disease. Charité is includes the use of devices that can monitor translational research structures, have researchers. Under the name Cardio Berlin, the only university hospital in cardiac rhythm and detect atrial fibrillation, proved highly profitable. the Berlin-based team’s current efforts Germany to offer this treat- as well as devices that are used to stimulate center around the development of methods ment to patients with the heart in patients who need treatment of prevention. Buerger‘s disease. for high-blood pressure or heart failure.

46 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 47 which are conducted under the auspices of initiated trials. These trials, which are both its dedicated Collaborative Research Center. planned and conducted at Charité, build on Research priorities include the bowel’s findings from Charité’s basic research endea- immune system, as well as studies that vors, which in turn benefit from Charité’s investigate the way in which the gastrointes- close links with the German Rheumatism tinal tract protects the body against potential Research Center. The compelling link-up bet- contamination by pathogens. The aim of this ween all of these different areas is evidence research is to apply new research findings of a distinctly translational focus within to help strengthen the body’s own defense rheumatology-based immunology research mechanisms, thus preventing chronic inflam- at Charité. Given the plethora of relevant mation. The close cooperation between research conducted at Charité, patients are basic research, clinical research, and patient- guaranteed treatments that incorporate the oriented research allows new research fin- very latest research findings. The sheer dings to be quickly translated into clinical quality of research conducted is evidenced by practice. This, in turn, ensures that Charité is the wealth of support received from funders always able to offer the very latest treatment such as the German Research Foundation options available. (DFG), the Federal Ministry of Education Immunology and Research, and the EU, as well as other Specialist expertise in rheumatology foundations and industrial partners. This Charité also boasts a wealth of expertise in funding plays a major role in ensuring that the field of rheumatology, where its special Charité can maintain its position as a leader International focus and interdisciplinary IBD Competence Network — a nationwide areas of research focus include inflammatory in rheumatology- and immunology-based approach network of departments, university-based joint disorders and systemic autoimmune research on both the national and interna- Charité’s work in the field of immunology institutes, and private specialists that have diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, as well tional stage. makes it stand out from other German joined together to conduct research into two as spondyloarthritis (inflammatory disorders research establishments. In this particular chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, Crohn’s of the spine), systemic lupus erythematosus area of medicine, which deals with disorders disease and ulcerative colitis. (SLE), and systemic sclerosis. Aside from of the immune system, it has distinguished causing considerable impairment, these itself through its strong international focus At Charité, IBD patients have access to the disorders also have a significant socio-econo- and interdisciplinary approach. Both of these best medical care available, with internal mic impact; the fact that they tend to occur have created opportunities that help Charité medicine specialists ably supported by in younger people means that there are also provide the latest in diagnosis, treatment experts from its various specialist surgical implications for health care policy. In the field and care. With an enviable level of expertise facilities. Charité is also committed to promo- of rheumatology, Charité is highly interested in both basic and clinical research, and its ting the dissemination of IBD-related know- in the areas of diagnosis, treatment, and re- current research structures, Charité can ledge and information within both the pro- search. Charité’s staff members boast a high ensure that research findings are quickly fessional community and the general public. level of specialist experience and expertise in translated into clinical practice. This involves close cooperation and exchange these areas, which is of particular advantage with other hospitals, private specialists, and given the highly variable nature and degree patient organizations as well as the organiza- of severity of the symptoms associated with Competence in the fight against inflamm- tion of information and training events that these types of diseases. atory bowel disorders are aimed both at specialists and patients. Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) Charité is also committed to the development In addition to providing general rheumatolo- is one of the main areas of research focus and successful long-term implementation gy-based diagnosis and treatment services within the field of immunology. In the areas of evidence-based clinical guidelines for the through both its inpatient and outpatient of diagnosis, treatment, and research, Charité treatment of both of these disorders. facilities, Charité also offers the option of is, therefore, able to offer something that very participation in national and international few other centers in Germany can compete All of these activities are a direct result of clinical trials, thereby giving patients access with. This is one of the reasons why Charité Charité’s commitment to research in the field to innovative new treatment methods. can call itself one of the three pillars of the of chronic inflammatory bowel disorders, Charité boasts a large number of investigator-

48 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 49 uses these data to produce a list of possible fundamental mechanisms of skeletal develop- diagnoses, thereby making a major contribu- ment, and the way in which this process is tion to the early detection and diagnosis of influenced by gene regulatory elements. The rare genetic diseases. team is also investigating the mechanisms underlying gene mutation, and their effects Phenotyping method finds international on bone development. The strength of this approval research lies in the close interplay between Charité is producing unique results within basic research into the regulation of gene the fields of modern genomics and bioinfor- expression, and the use of modern genome matics. The Human Phenotype Ontology analysis methods in the screening of patients (HPO) database, which is used by the PhenIX with different skeletal disorders. By untang- program to screen for rare diseases, and ling and identifying the causes of skeletal which is now used by researchers across malformations, these researchers are creating the globe, was the result of the combined the basis for new treatment approaches in efforts of researchers from Charité and MPI. patients with genetic disorders. They are also The HPO database, which lists the symptoms gaining a deeper understanding of the inter- of all known — and primarily hereditary — play between regulatory elements of the Genetics diseases affecting human beings, is intended human genome, whose exact mechanisms as a tool for investigating phenotypic expres- and dynamics remain a mystery. sion, and is an example of the tools available from the field of bioinformatics and computer Close cooperation with BCRT Tracking genes families with adequate support throughout analysis. Charité‘s genetics expertise also extends Charité‘s genetics division exemplifies the the diagnostic process. In addition to compre- to the field of regenerative medicine, where benefits associated with combining high- hensive information and counseling, patients Pioneers in decoding hereditary diseases it has forged a close cooperation with the quality research with a hospital of Charité‘s have also had access to the innovative Within the field of genetics, Charité‘s main Berlin-Brandenburg Center for Regenerative high standing. Here, researchers and physici- laboratory-based genetic testing on offer at research interests include the identification Therapies (BCRT). Genetic testing methods, ans work together to track the genes respon- Labor Berlin — Charité Vivantes GmbH since and analysis of disease mechanisms, biocom- such as high-throughput genome analysis sible for hereditary diseases, in the hope of 2011. Genetics researchers are working in putational analysis, and the analysis and and the analysis of mechanisms involved in improving diagnosis and translating research close cooperation with the Departments linking of clinical symptoms (phenotype) with stem cell differentiation, are used to develop findings into clinical practice. Charité‘s of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, the genetic variants. Also included in this list is new, personalized treatments that target Institute of Medical Genetics and Human Breast Center, and many other units. Research the development of genetic testing systems specific molecular defects. One particularly Genetics has a close working relationship with findings are translated into new diagnostic and their implementation in clinical practice. important area of collaboration has been the Max Planck Institute (MPI) for Molecular methods, some of which are then used within One particularly important area of research, the study of skeletal and connective tissue Genetics. Together, they have succeeded in Charité‘s departments, including those and one in which Charité researchers are disorders and the regenerative potential developing pioneering diagnostic methods relating to pediatrics and adolescent medici- at the forefront, is the regulation of gene of affected tissues. and have successfully decoded complex ne. Charité‘s geneticists count among the expression and its investigation using animal genetic processes. leading experts in the field of high-through- models. New techniques have been develo- put genome analysis, a method that allows ped that allow researchers to recreate, within Close cooperation between research and the comprehensive sequencing of nearly all the mouse genome, genetic changes affecting diagnostics has been of particular benefit to currently-known genetic diseases. human genes. This method of using mice as patients with rare hereditary diseases, as any A new program, developed by researchers models for the study of rare human genetic progress made is directly translated into from Charité, Labor Berlin — Charité Vivantes disorders is often the only way for resear- clinical practice. Charité‘s genetics division GmbH, and MPI, combines the results of chers to find out more about the disease and therefore manages to combine basic research genetic testing with information from a develop treatments. and clinical practice in an exemplary fashion. symptoms database. This Human Phenotype Ontology database contains the symptoms A defining feature of genetics research at New diagnostic methods of all known genetic diseases (approximately Charité is its close cooperation with the MPI. The hospital runs various outpatient clinics, 3,000 in total), storing them in digital format. At the MPI, for instance, the Development & which aim to provide both patients and their A new program, by the name of ‘PhenIX’, Disease Research Group is investigating the

50 Health care priorities and research foci with international recognition 51 5Charité’s strategic networks

Cooperative projects with industrial partners — from research innovation to practical application

Charité’s efforts to maintain and enhance its role as a leader in the areas of medical care, Collaborations of mutual benefit strategies: the majority of university-based research, and teaching also form an integral part of its overall corporate strategy. In order Close collaborations with industrial partners, research is basic research, with an emphasis to meet these aims, Charité is focusing its efforts on specific areas of research focus, seeking which exist across a wide range of areas, on prompt dissemination and publication of to cooperate with competent partners from other university hospitals, non-university based form an integral part of Charité’s corporate findings. In contrast, when private companies strategy. Aside from its strategic Research invest large sums in Research and Develop- research organizations, and industry. and Development partnerships with phar- ment, they are usually interested in keeping maceutical companies, Charité is also actively findings secret until such a time as they are Charité’s carefully selected measures allow it to combine its own wide range of expertise committed to promoting partnerships with ready to market their new drug or innovative with that of its partners. In doing so, Charité is able to initiate projects with huge innovative information and communications technology medical devices. Committed to overcoming potential that will influence the direction of medical care and research within Germany companies, as well as medical technology these traditional barriers, Charité pursues a and beyond. companies. Charité’s sheer size makes it an strategy that allows both partners to achieve ideal partner for Research and Development satisfactory results, as well as ensuring that partnerships. This is because, for many of their respective strengths can complement the medical conditions treated at Charité, each other. Aside from increasing the innova- the numbers of patients treated exceed those tive potential of both partners, this strategy seen at other German hospitals. The level ensures a smoother translation of research of skill and expertise displayed by Charité findings, and allows patients to benefit much researchers across many different subject sooner. areas is another reason why Charité is such an attractive partner. Charité’s flagship projects The fact that it is possible for both partners By developing new types of cooperative to benefit from such cooperative arrange- projects, Charité is hoping to convince those ments is evidenced by various projects that who still harbor reservations as to the bene- Charité has entered into with industrial part- fits of cooperative arrangements between ners. A pioneering example of such a coope- science and industry. The reason why some rative arrangement is Charité’s Research still have doubts is that, traditionally, these and Development partnership with Sanofi- two sectors have pursued very different Aventis. This cooperative partnership, which

52 Charité’s strategic networks 53 Charité International Academy

Since 2009, Charité International Academy has been running training events aimed at health care professionals from Germany and abroad. These cover a wide spectrum, ranging from courses that help develop communication skills, such as German as a Foreign Language and Medical English, to courses in Intercultural Competence, as well as research-related topics such as Scientific Writing and Fundraising for Research.

The course program, which remains unique in Germany, offers targeted training to prepare staff members for the challenges associated with the globalization of the education and job markets.

Further information: chia.charite.de

Truly international

is aimed at the joint development and Promoting technology transfer Living diversity For many years, the Charité International marketing of drugs, sees researchers from Close cooperation with selected industrial Charité staff and students hail from every Health Care Office has been providing inter- Sanofi and Charité work side-by-side in a new partners is of immense importance if Charité continent and, more specifically, 89 different national patients with support before, during, diabetes laboratory. The aim of the arrange- is to fully exploit the high innovative potential countries. Many of our patients also come and after their treatment; it is ideally placed ment is to work together to better under- of its research activities. The Technology to us from abroad, making the trip in order to answer any questions that might arise in stand the needs of patients with diabetes, Transfer Office, which was founded in order to be treated by specialists who are world- relation to the subject of medical treatment and how these can be addressed through to support this aim, is dedicated to sup- leading in their fields. Charité is committed abroad. different treatment approaches. Joint porting researchers hoping to protect their to promoting this diversity, fostering interna- follow-on projects ensure faster translation research findings through patents, and tional exchange programs, and maintaining Following in-depth discussions with the into clinical practice, meaning patients can assists them in turning their research into the organization’s multi-faceted nature. In an patient, members of the team will coordinate benefit much sooner. Provisions in place marketable products. The Technology effort to achieve these aims, Charité has put the relevant components of the patient’s include a ‘Think Tank’, which allows resear- Transfer Office provides advice on topics in place a myriad of customizable options for treatment plan to ensure that they receive chers from both parties to discuss issues such as inventions and patents, cooperative its patients, students, and staff. This ensures personalized support which reflects their related to research and treatment, as well as arrangements with private companies, and that the different target groups receive medical needs. Members of the Charité Inter- the impact of relevant social and economic spin-offs. It is responsible for overseeing the support they need. national Health Care Office will consult with factors. Through this knowledge exchange the commercial exploitation of inventions, specialists from the relevant departments in platform, researchers from both parties have and facilitates contacts between researchers Health Care Services for International order to provide prospective patients with the opportunity to gain an insight into how and external companies. By doing so, the Patients individualized treatment estimates, including the other partner operates. Researchers from Office actively supports Charité’s commit- The thought of going abroad for medical details of treatment costs and the maximum Charité and Sanofi-Aventis also benefit from ment to bench-to-bedside translation and treatment usually prompts many questions: duration of treatment. Charité International easy access to resources such as compo- the practical application of research findings. How does one go about organizing such a Health Care Office will also provide support nents of active ingredients, biomarkers, This allows Charité to maintain and enhance trip? What documentation and formalities with immigration formalities, and arrange instruments and devices. its role as one of the main players within are necessary? How much will treatment transport to and from the hospital, as reques- the health care sector. cost? How would a patient or members of ted. If necessary, the Office will arrange his/her family communicate with the treating for an interpreter, and will arrange suitable physician? Members of the Charité Inter- accommodations for anyone accompanying national Health Care team are happy to help the patient. All services offered will reflect with these and similar questions. Charité’s commitment to ensuring that

54 Charité’s strategic networks 55 1946 — 1989 Charité Welcome Center Charité becomes a GDR flagship institution The Charité Welcome Center offers a range of services for professionals hoping to join the organization from abroad. The Office provides information and advice on the topic of ‘working at Charité’, 1997 — 2003 Charité’s current and useful tips on life in Berlin. Prior to arrival, prospective staff members four-campus- receive support in dealing with immigration formalities, registering as a resident, structure emerges and advice on how to find accommodation. International staff members can also contact the office for advice on financial and health-related matters. This service is available throughout their stay at Charité.

Further information: welcome.charite.de

Charité Foundation — promoting innovation

cultural and religious customs are always This includes support for Charité students Promoting entrepreneurial thinking, funding, a type of funding that can be used taken into consideration. The wide range of hoping to spend part of their training abroad, enabling change to turn their findings into clinical applica- services provided by the Charité Internatio- be it as part of a student exchange program, An organization like Charité, which is hoping tion, i.e. take them from ‘bench to bedside’. nal Health Care Office allows international a practical placement, or as part of their to maintain its position as one of the leading This type of funding allows theories and patients to concentrate on what really final year rotation. ChIC is also an ideal point university hospitals in the world, cannot ideas to be tested in a practical setting, with counts — the outstanding medical care they of contact for international students hoping afford to rest on its laurels. a view to developing new active ingredients receive and their own well-being. to attend a Charité Summer School, and This is why Charité is committed to actively or medical devices further down the line. those planning to spend a semester or even promoting the values of innovation, entrepre- Charité International Cooperation their entire degree course at Charité. Thanks neurship, and a willingness to implement • The Max Rubner-Preis, an annual award Charité International Cooperation (ChIC) to its close links with numerous international change, among its staff members. How can aimed at individuals who actively promote is an administrative unit responsible for partner universities, Charité can also offer an organization like Charité ensure that new positive change, is presented in recognition coordinating and organizing international a wide range of opportunities for Charité ideas are successfully translated into clinical of efforts aimed at improving conditions activities involving the Faculty of Medicine. students hoping to gain experience abroad. practice, and prompt positive changes? for staff, patients and students. The prize is The answers to these challenging questions named after Johanna Quandt’s grandfather, are manifold. Since 2005, they have formed an expert in occupational physiologist and one of the main areas of interest of the nutrition, who was behind the introduction Charité Foundation. The Foundation, which of numerous highly innovative develop- was founded by the entrepreneur Johanna ments at Charité. Quandt, promotes entrepreneurial thinking at Charité, rewards innovative ideas, and • Physicians who are training to become provides support in bringing these to fruition. specialists do not usually have (much) time for research. The ‘Friedrich C. Luft’ Clinical The Charité Foundation currently focuses on Scientist Pilot Program, which was deve- the following five areas of activity: loped in conjunction with the foundation VolkswagenStiftung and Ärzteinitiative • Project teams whose project in basic or Junge Charité (a young physicians’ alliance applied research has produced promising at Charité), allows selected young physici- findings can apply to the Foundation for gap ans to dedicate a minimum of 25% of their

56 Charité’s strategic networks 57 Max Rubner-Preis

The Max Rubner-Preis, which is worth €100,000, is aimed at promoting the implementation of innovative ideas that are aimed at improving existing conditions and optimizing existing structures at Charité. So far, the prize — named after the nutritional researcher Max Rubner (1854 — 1932) — has been awarded in recognition of ideas that were aimed at improving aspects of quality management, nursing, staff training, and academic teaching.

Further information: www.stiftung-charite.de

World Health Summit — bringing experts together

working time to research. The program also As an independent legal entity, the Charité Answers to current and future health International decision-makers identifying provides complementary training modules, Foundation commands the enviable position care challenges solutions such as training in management and leader- of being able to test innovative ideas across Health care providers of the 21st Century are When Charité hosted the first World Health ship skills. the full range of activities it supports. The facing an increasing number of challenges, Summit in 2009, the event was organized Foundation aims to support entrepreneurial with new problems adding to many existing under the auspices of the Federal Chancellor • With its Charité Entrepreneurship Summit, efforts and hopes to influence the changes ones that remain unsolved despite asto- Angela Merkel and the French President the Charité Foundation has developed an currently shaping the medical sector in order nishing medical advances. While a rapidly Nicolas Sarkozy. The event was presided over event that is encouraging innovative physi- to ensure that Charité remains one of the aging population is resulting in an increase by its founding president, Professor Detlev cians to discuss their ideas with experts leading university hospitals. The Foundation’s in chronic and degenerative diseases, new Ganten, who had been Chairman of the Board from the technology transfer and financial involvement is of immense importance to epidemics such as EHEC and swine flu are at Charité from 2004 to 2008. Once a year, sectors. The Summit, which is held on an Charité, allowing it to remain adaptable, and joining an army of known epidemics such the World Health Summit brings together, annual basis, also provides a platform for a veritable cradle of innovation. as HIV, TB, and malaria. When Charité in Berlin, high-level decision-makers and an exchange of knowledge with successful initiated the foundation of the M8 Alliance thought leaders from the fields of science, entrepreneurs. of Academic Health Centers, Universities, politics, business and civil society. They come and National Academies, the intention was together to discuss the problems most likely • Another annual event is Workshop Unter to create a network of relevant stakeholders to dominate the medical world over the next nehmerische Charité, which is a workshop to complement and support the G8’s political few years, and to identify solutions to these aimed at physicians, researchers, and stu- initiatives. The World Health Summit, which problems. The list of challenges facing dents, and offers training in business mana- was launched to provide the Alliance with the health care sector is a substantial one: gement, encourages spin-offs, and provides an appropriate forum, brings together policy climate change and associated health risks, networking opportunities for individuals makers from all areas of the health care the increase in chronic diseases, the persis- interested in creating new companies. sector, and promotes the dialog on issues tent lack of adequate medical care that The workshop, which is truly interactive in that are likely to hold importance for the continues to affect many countries, and the nature, focuses on case studies, business whole of society. increasing costs associated with providing simulation games, and group discussions. medical care. All of these challenges represent grave threats to world health, and place enormous pressure on the world’s health care systems. Diseases do not respect

58 Charité’s strategic networks 59 Coimbra Health, Portugal The M8 Alliance members Imperial College London, United Kingdom London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, United Kingdom Sorbonne Paris Cité, France

University of Geneva, Switzerland Geneva University Hospitals, Switzerland Graduate Institute Geneva, Switzerland Charité — Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Germany University of Montreal, Canada InterAcademy Medical Panel (IAMP), Italy Institut de Recherches Cliniques Sapienza University of Rome, Italy de Montréal, Canada

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School Russian Academy Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & of Public Health, USA of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, China Russian Federation Association of Academic Health National Taiwan University, Taiwan Centers International (AAHCI), USA Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan World Federation of Academic Institutions for Global Health (WFAIGH), Ghana

Makerere University, National University of Singapore, Singapore Uganda

University of São Paulo, Brazil

= The M8 Alliance founding members Monash University, Australia

national borders, which is why Charité is and senior representatives from international particularly committed to pursuing an health organizations such as the WHO and M8 Alliance of Academic Health Centers, international approach to solving these other UN-sponsored programs such as Universities and National Academies problems. UNAIDS. As the Summit offers opportunities for strategic exchange, it also attracts Comprising 23 members from 16 different countries, the M8 Alliance is a network Pioneering efforts from teams of leading representatives from foundations, such as of outstanding medical institutions that are committed to improving global health. experts the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Members of the Alliance share a common aim, namely that of promoting the prompt Ever since the successful launch of the World the World Economic Forum. It also attracts translation of research from bench to bedside. Members agree that, in order to achieve Health Summit, Charité has been seeking to representatives from large research organi- this aim, there will need to be an increased focus on interdisciplinary research and cross-sector collaboration. The purpose of the Alliance is to place health care at the top establish close links with large numbers of zations such as Helmholtz Association, of the political, social, and academic agendas. The World Health Summit, which is decision-makers from all around the world. Max Planck Society, and Leibniz Association. organized on an annual basis, supports these aims. The Summit, which now attracts approxi- During their discussions, delegates also take mately 1,300 people from over 90 different into consideration any political, social, countries, always aims to offer excellent economic, and geographical factors that are Further information: www.worldhealthsummit.org/m8-alliance speakers, including senior representatives likely to have a significant impact on health from politics (including a large number of care provision. Given the strongly inter-linked Ministers for Health from many European nature of these issues, it becomes clear that and non-European countries, as well as repre- the world needs a broad-based alliance for sentatives from the European Commission), health if it is to tackle the major medical leading researchers (including many Nobel issues of the 21st Century. This is why the pio- Prize Laureates), Members of the Board of neering efforts of Charité and its World Health research-based pharmaceutical companies, Summit are of such immense importance.

60 Charité’s strategic networks 61 Two big names under one roof Berlin Institute of Health (BIH)

Charité — Max Delbrück Universitäts- Center for medizin Molecular Berlin Medicine (MDC)

Berlin Institute of Health — a model facility for translational research

Institutional cooperation with the and internationally — is also of immense participant-oriented approach to research. Advances in systems medicine Max Delbrück Center benefit to the city of Berlin. Aside from Aside from highly modern research structu- The BIH addresses instances of overlap bet- When Charité and the Max Delbrück Center strengthening its reputation as an internatio- res, the unit, which is aimed at facilitating ween systems and processes that can have for Molecular Medicine (MDC) joined forces nal center of biomedical research, the city translational research, will also offer the an impact on human health and disease. to create the Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), is also able to attract an increasing number support facilities required for the conduct Results from this type of research can then the result was the meeting of two giants of outstanding researchers. This is made of high-quality clinical studies. be used to develop new methods of preven- of biomedical research, and the combination possible through generous funding support. tion, diagnosis, and treatment. One of the of their respective strengths and expertise Both the federal and state governments have Technology platforms, which facilitate out- BIH’s research groups, for instance, is dedica- under one roof. As an entity, BIH is unique: pledged a total of €300 million until 2018, standing research, are another one of BIH’s ted to developing a new type of cancer treat- Germany’s first-ever joint venture between while the entrepreneur Johanna Quandt is core elements. As repositories of bioinforma- ment. The treatment involves genetic engi- a university-based and a non-university- providing a total of up to €40 million. tics algorithms and computer models, these neering, which enables the patient’s own based research organization, the BIH stands platforms offer an effective and reliable way T-cells to recognize and destroy cancer cells. for a close interlinking of basic and clinical Joint research endeavors and outstanding to analyze the vast amounts of research data Another research group is investigating the research. It has a strong focus on the pursuit infrastructure on cellular molecules or tissues now routinely complex interactions of proteins in the nerve of translational research, which is closely As long-standing partners, Charité and MDC collected using high-throughput technolo- cells of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. intertwined with systems medicine, a field of have many years of experience in coopera- gies. As a result, these platforms ensure that The aim is to develop new treatment options study with a characteristically interdiscipli- ting on a range of projects, which include the data can be used to benefit and inform clinical and to find new therapeutic indications for nary approach to research, which centers Experimental and Clinical Research Center practice. existing medicines. As part of another around the nature and interactions of diffe- (ECRD) and the German Center for Cardiovas- research project, researchers and physicians rent mechanisms of disease and organ cular Disease (DZHK). In addition to these, As far as support for young researchers is are working together to investigate how systems. Bench-to-bedside-to-bench trans- there are a number of outstanding projects concerned, BIH is placing its faith in new pro- to diagnose hereditary diseases in children. lation of research findings can happen faster which are being conducted by different grams that support a finely-balanced combi- This involves individual patients undergoing and in a more targeted manner. This allows Collaborative Research Centers, or have been nation of theory and practice. For physicians extensive examination, as well as comprehen- patients to benefit from new methods of established as part of the German Excellence who are receiving support as part of the sive genome analysis to identify mutations. preventing, diagnosing, and treating disease, Initiative. It is this level of experience that Clinical Scientist Program, for instance, this It is hoped that an improved understanding while practical experience feeds back into the BIH can now draw upon. Over the next means that they are able to set aside 50% of the underlying causes and disease mecha- further research. few years, the BIH will place a particular focus of their working time for research activities. nisms will result in the development of new The BIH, which intends to set new standards on the creation of the Clinical Research treatment options. for translational research — both nationally Unit, a research center with a patient- and

62 Charité’s strategic networks 63 510 Courses on offer doctoral 2 degrees Graduate Schools Charité in numbers 10

Master’s degree AND LEARNING TEACHING 6 ‘Habilitation‘ 13 programs degrees Degree 3 courses Undergraduate 49 degrees

second 13,100 TEAM employees From 91 countries Facts and figures can also help paint a picture of Charité. largest As the largest university hospital in Europe, Charité covers a total of 540,000 square meters (over 5.8 million square feet) and extends over four campuses. The hospital has approximately employer in Berlin 3,000 beds and more than 5,000 babies are born here every year. 69%

including 3,700 Researchers and Physician 3 1 % female 4,135 Nursing staff employees 710 Administrative staff male 220 Professorial staff employees

5 Excellence Projects Third-party (3 led by Charité)

12 Collaborative Research Centers RESEARCH 98 funding (7 led by Charité) Partner Universities 150,700,000 2 Clinical Research Groups 5 DFG Research Groups

2 DFG Graduate Schools

d i 3 German Centers for w d l r Health Research (DZG) o w rs 2 n e All figures are from July 2015 7 a r t 64 m a j o r p 71 Erasmus partners in Europe € Organogram

Medical Senate Supervisory Board Faculty Council

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Chief Executive Officer Hospital Directorate Medical Directorate Dean’s Office

Hospital Management Faculty Board Hospital Director Dean Medical Director Vice Dean for Research Nursing Director Vice Dean for Teaching and Learning Hospital Business Director Faculty Business Director Hospital Management Office Faculty Board Office

CHARITÉ CENTERS

CC 1 Health and Human Sciences (ZHGB) CC 1 CC 2 Basic Sciences CC 2 CC 3 Dental and Craniofacial Sciences CC 3 CC 4 Therapy and Research CC 4 CC 5 Diagnostic Laboratory and Preventive Medicine CC 5 CC 6 Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine CC 6 CC 7 Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine CC 7 CC 8 Surgery CC 8 CC 9 Orthopedics and Traumatology CC 9 CC 10 Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center CC 10 CC 11 Cardiovascular Diseases CC 11 CC 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology CC 12 CC 13 Internal Medicine with Gastroenterology and Nephrology CC 13 CC 14 Tumor Medicine CC 14 CC 15 Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry CC 15 CC 16 Audiology/Phoniatrics, Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology CC 16 CC 17 Gynecology, Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine with Perinatal Center & Human Genetics CC 17

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ZTB Zentrum für Transfusionsmedizin und Zelltherapie Berlin gemeinnützige GmbH Labor Berlin — Charité Vivantes Services GmbH Labor Berlin — Charité Vivantes GmbH Charité CFM Facility Management GmbH CRO Charité Research Organisation GmbH Charité Healthcare Services GmbH Charité Physiotherapie- und Präventionszentrum GmbH Ambulantes Gesundheitszentrum der Charité GmbH MVZ Charité Vivantes GmbH WHS Foundation GmbH

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