Martin Göttlicher

Prof. Dr. Martin Göttlicher is the Director of the Institute of Molecular Toxicology and Pharmacology at Helmholtz Munich and holds a joint appointment with Technical University Munich as Chair of Toxicology and Environmental Hygiene. His research bridges molecular mechanisms of chemical interactions with human physiology, focusing on therapeutic and toxicological implications.

• Education: Basic medical training, postdoctoral fellowship at Karolinska Institute (1991-1994), habilitation fellowship by DFG (1994-2002).

His work explores how chemicals influence gene regulation and cellular processes, including the discovery of valproic acid as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor and PPARα activation by fatty acids. This research spans epigenetics, metabolic disorders, and cancer therapy.

Recent publications highlight his contributions to HDAC inhibition in cancer and cardiac physiology, dioxin receptor mechanisms, and drug repurposing for leukemia. Key trends involve epigenetic regulation, metabolic signaling, and translational toxicology.

• Scientific Awards:
  • German Cancer Award (2006)
  • DFG Habilitation Fellowship (1994-1996)
  • EMBO Long-term Fellowship (1991-1992)

Göttlicher leads drug discovery initiatives at Helmholtz Munich, chairs professional education commissions for toxicologists, and contributes to cancer and metabolic disease research through molecular and cellular approaches.