Heidrun Potschka

Prof. Dr. Heidrun Potschka is a full Professor and Chairholder at the Chair of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich (LMU). She is a recognized Veterinary Specialist in Pharmacology and Toxicology and leads a major research group focused on epilepsy and drug resistance mechanisms. She is affiliated with key research networks including the Munich Center for Neurosciences (MCN) and the Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences (GSN).

Educational Background:

• Doctorate, Justus Liebig University Giessen (1997)
• Habilitation in Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (2004)

Her research focuses on the pharmacology and pathophysiology of epilepsy, particularly the role of multidrug efflux transporters such as P-glycoprotein in mediating pharmacoresistance. She investigates mechanisms of BBB dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity in epilepsy, with a strong emphasis on translational approaches. Her work includes validating new therapeutic strategies and imaging biomarkers for CNS drug delivery. She employs advanced techniques including seizure models, EEG monitoring, microdialysis, and in vitro BBB models.

Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on drug resistance in epilepsy, the development of imaging biomarkers (especially PET-based P-gp imaging), and the therapeutic potential of novel agents like cannabidiol and erythropoietin mimetics. Her work bridges veterinary and human neurology, contributing significantly to both fields.

Scientific Awards:

• Award from the Academy for Animal Health (2004)
• Michael Prize, International Award of the Michael Foundation (2005)
• Falk Medical Research Trust Award (2006)

Prof. Potschka has supervised several doctoral students, including Dr. Eva-Lotta von Rüden and Dr. Joanna Goc. Her research is supported by prestigious grants from the DFG and EU programs like EURIPIDES. She has played a key role in international consensus efforts, particularly through the International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force, helping to standardize the diagnosis and treatment of canine epilepsy.

Laboratory and Research Team:
She leads the Potschka Research Group at LMU, which includes technical assistants, PhD students, and postdoctoral researchers. The team operates within the Chair of Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy and collaborates extensively with institutions such as the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry and pharmaceutical industry partners.