Bernd Schröder

Bernd Schröder is a W2 Professor at the Institute of Physiological Chemistry within the Faculty of Medicine at Dresden University of Technology since 2018. His academic journey began with medical studies at Philipps-University Marburg and Imperial College School of Medicine, London (1997-2004), followed by doctoral research at Philipps-University Marburg (2005-2007), and a postdoctoral period as group leader at Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel (2007-2018).

Professor Schröder leads the SPP/SPPL Protease Research Group, focusing on regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) and its role in cellular signal transduction and membrane trafficking. His research spans from mechanistic studies of aspartyl intramembrane proteases (SPP/SPPL family) to their physiological relevance in immune function, metabolic regulation, and disease processes. The lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining molecular biology, protein biochemistry, cell culture, flow cytometry, and mouse models to investigate how these proteases control cellular homeostasis.

Analysis of Professor Schröder's publication record reveals a strong focus on intramembrane proteolysis with particular emphasis on SPPL2a's critical role in immune cell function. His work demonstrates consistent output in high-impact journals across immunology, cell biology, and biochemistry, showing progression from basic mechanistic studies to physiological and potential therapeutic applications. The research themes show increasing integration of cellular mechanisms with in vivo physiological contexts, particularly regarding immune regulation.

Professor Schröder actively supervises graduate students through the Dresden International Graduate School for Interdisciplinary Life Sciences. His lab provides comprehensive training in multiple experimental approaches including cell culture techniques (particularly with primary immune cells), molecular biology, protein biochemistry, flow cytometry, and advanced microscopy. The research program maintains active collaborations within Germany and internationally, reflecting the specialized nature of intramembrane proteolysis research.

The Schröder lab is particularly noted for its work on SPPL2a and its role in immune cell homeostasis, which has positioned this protease as a promising therapeutic target. Current research focuses on understanding how SPP/SPPL proteases integrate with cellular proteostasis networks, the mechanisms of substrate selection, and the therapeutic potential and risks of targeting these proteases, particularly in relation to immune function and infection susceptibility.