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. Frederick Klauschen
Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Prof. Dr. Markus Meißner

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