معرفی
Thomas Dittmar is a Professor of Immunology and Tumor Biology at the University of Witten/Herdecke, serving as Chair of Immunology and leading the Doctoral Committee for Dr. med./Dr. rer. medic. programs. He directs research at the Center for Biomedical Education and Research (ZBAF), focusing on cancer cell fusion mechanisms and microplastic toxicity. His academic journey includes a Diploma in Chemistry from Ruhr-Universität Bochum (1995) and a PhD from Universität Witten/Herdecke (1999), where he progressed from postdoc to full professor by 2010.
Research encompasses two primary domains: 1) The Stem Cells group investigates TNF-α-mediated fusion between breast cancer/epithelial cells and immune/stromal cells, exploring hybrid cells' role in metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence using novel assays (Double-Fluorescence Reporter, Dual-Split). 2) The Micro- and Nanoplastik group analyzes particle uptake mechanisms in human cells and carcinogenic risks, revealing size/dose-dependent effects on migration and cellular accumulation.
Recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate concentrated focus on breast cancer hybrid cell biology (addressing Snail/ZEB1 knockouts, fusion assays, minocycline effects) and environmental toxicology (polystyrene particle impacts). The work integrates molecular oncology, cell biophysics, and translational methodologies.
Current doctoral advisees include Alexandra Brause, Robin Hegman, and Maximilian Späth. Laboratory operations are supported by technical and scientific staff: Silvia Keil, Julian Weiler, Mareike Sieler, and Vivienne Ogasa.
