About ICON LMU - Innovation Through Integration

Interfaculty Center for Endocrine and Cardiovascular Disease Network Modelling and Clinical Transfer at LMU Munich

Who we are

ICON is a pioneering research hub at the intersection of medicine, veterinary science, and biomedical engineering, dedicated to solving some of the most pressing challenges in cardiovascular and endocrine health.

At Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU), we unite internationally recognized experts across disciplines to accelerate the translation of groundbreaking discoveries into real-world clinical applications. Our focus spans the full spectrum of translational medicine — from molecular mechanisms to preclinical models and early-stage human trials.

Our Mission

To bridge the gap between basic science and clinical care, ICON brings together cross-faculty expertise to:

  • Understand complex diseases like diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis, heart failure, arrhythmias, and valve disorders
  • Develop and refine large animal models that closely mimic human physiology
  • Validate new diagnostic tools, biomarkers, and therapeutic strategies in a clinically relevant setting

Our Focus Areas

ICON integrates LMU’s research strength across three core themes:

  1. Endocrine and Metabolic Dysfunction
  2. Vascular Disease Mechanisms
  3. Myocardial, Rhythm, and Valve Disorders

Each focus area is supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure, including genetically engineered pig models, multimodal imaging, biobanking, and core facilities for molecular phenotyping and minimally invasive interventions.

A Platform for Collaboration and Clinical Impact

With strong ties to LMU’s University Hospital (KUM), the Early Clinical Trial Unit (ECTU), and the biotech innovation campus at Martinsried, ICON serves as a launchpad for clinical innovation and industry collaboration. Through strategic alliances and programs like PRIME, our DFG-funded Clinician Scientist initiative, we train the next generation of translational scientists and physicians.

Administration and Coordination of the ICON LMU

Board Members:

Founding Directors:
Prof. Dr. Steffen Massberg
Prof. Dr. Eckhard Wolf

W3 Professorship for Large Animal Research in Translational Medicine:
Prof. Dr. Daphne Merkus

Elected Representative of Junior Research Group Leaders (5-year term):
PD Dr. Sebastian Clauss

Deans of Research
Faculty of Human Medicine: Prof. Dr. Stefan Endres
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Prof. Dr. Markus Meißner

Executive Office:
Dr. Stephanie Regenfelder — Administrative Coordinator
Dr. Sebastian Clauss — Scientific Coordinator