Clinical and Experimental Physiology

Novel Therapeutic Approaches in Chronic Conditions

Through strategic partnerships with university hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry, we interrogate novel therapeutic approaches for conditions such as muscle wasting, diabetes, and lung disease.

Our clinical trials evaluate both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, translating scientific discoveries into meaningful outcomes for patients.

By combining clinical expertise with advanced physiological methodologies, we aim to improve treatment strategies for chronic conditions.

Exercise-Mimicking Drug Discovery

We leverage cutting-edge omics techniques and mechanistic approaches to understand the molecular signature of exercise. This knowledge enables us to identify novel therapeutic targets that mimic the beneficial effects of exercise.

While exercise remains unique in its multifaceted effects, we aim at identifying targets that can partially mimic these effects, which is particularly important for individuals unable to engage in physical activity.

Our research focuses specifically on targets related to adrenergic receptors, the androgen system, and mechanotransduction.

Substance Effects and Anti-Doping

Our deep understanding of human physiology and drug mechanisms naturally extends to anti-doping research. Many compounds we study for therapeutic purposes have potential for misuse in sports.

Working closely with anti-doping stakeholders, we conduct critical research to identify and combat doping in sports. Our studies investigate the physiological impacts, and detection, of performance-enhancing substances, helping to protect athlete health and maintain sporting integrity.

This research not only contributes to anti-doping efforts but also feeds back into our understanding of therapeutic applications and human physiological adaptation.

Human Performance Optimization

We investigate the boundaries of human performance through comprehensive studies with athletes.

Our research examines innovative approaches to optimize performance, including advanced training strategies and evidence-based supplementation protocols.

The knowledge gained from studying peak human performance often reveals new pathways for treating disease and dysfunction.

We are always seeking talented, enthusiastic individuals to join our team. Our lab hosts a diverse group of Danish and international researchers.

If you are a Master Student or PhD candidate seeking to be part of our research or to undertake an internship or change of scientific environment, please contact: Morten Hostrup, mhostrup@nexs.ku.dk

This project investigates the intriguing phenomenon of muscle memory - where previously gained muscle mass is regained more rapidly following periods of atrophy. Through state-of-the-art technologies and carefully designed human trials, we examine the molecular mechanisms underlying this adaptation.

Our studies combine various anabolic stimuli, including resistance training, testosterone, and beta₂-agonists, with periods of detraining.

This project simultaneously advances our understanding of basic muscle physiology, drug mechanisms, and anti-doping science, exemplifying our integrated research approach.

Central to our exercise-mimicking drug discovery focus is understanding how skeletal muscle mass and function are regulated at the molecular level.

In our current projects, we employ advanced omics methodologies and mechanistic human trials to decode the molecular signatures of different exercise modalities and identify key biomarkers of adaptation.

Our mass spectrometry-based approaches serve dual purposes: revealing essential proteins and pathways for muscle adaptation while enabling detection of illicit substance use.

This comprehensive strategy provides important insights for developing therapeutic interventions in muscle-wasting conditions while advancing both performance optimization and anti-doping methods.

Our investigation of the adrenergic system demonstrates the synergy between therapeutic development and anti-doping research.

We have uncovered significant insights regarding beta₂-adrenergic agonists - commonly used asthma medications - and their complex effects on organ systems and metabolism.

Our ongoing research projects into newer-generation beta₂-agonists serves multiple purposes: maintaining sporting integrity, exploring therapeutic applications beyond respiratory disease, and deepening our understanding of adrenergic signaling.

This work exemplifies how our clinical research simultaneously advances therapeutic development and anti-doping efforts.