Sandra Rother

Dr. Sandra Rother is an Assistant Professor at Saarland University's School of Medicine, affiliated with the Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine (CIPMM) in Homburg. She leads an active research laboratory focused on glycosaminoglycan-mediated signaling pathways and their implications in biomedical conditions including cancer, chronic wounds, and inflammation. Her work bridges fundamental biochemistry with clinical applications through biomimetic material development.

Her primary research examines how glycosaminoglycans regulate extracellular matrix dynamics and growth factor signaling (particularly TGF-β cytokines) in pathological contexts. The lab employs cutting-edge techniques including Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR), Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), LC-MS glycosaminoglycan analysis, CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and engineered 3D cell culture systems to investigate structural modifications affecting protein binding and cellular responses.

Current research priorities include:

• Glycocalyx manipulation for melanoma therapeutics
• Development of glycosaminoglycan-functionalized hydrogels for angiogenic regulation
• Impact of advanced glycation products on extracellular matrix
• Glycosaminoglycan mimetics from sustainable sources

Her research is funded by:

• Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Stiftung (Project 2024-021: Targeting the glycocalyx for melanoma treatment)
• WISNA-Program (Federal-State Program for the Promotion of Young Scientists)

Dr. Rother leads a diverse team including 6 current students (PhD, MD, and Bachelor/Master candidates) and 8 alumni. She actively recruits postdoctoral researchers and students interested in glycoscience, emphasizing diversity and equity in her laboratory. Current team projects include bioactive hydrogel development, glycocalyx imaging, and biomimetic implant coatings.