The Comparative Medicine Lab (CML) at the Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, is a leading research facility specializing in stem cell research, experimental animal models, and innovative diagnostic technologies. Since its establishment, CML has driven over 400 scientific projects, involving students and researchers at all career stages. The lab organizes scientific courses, engages in public dissemination, and fosters academic-industrial partnerships.

CML holds the status of a core facility within the Faculty of Health at Aarhus University.

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Developing Animal Models for Disease Research
 

CML is renowned for its work on animal models of disease, which replicate key aspects of human and animal pathological processes. These models are essential for studying:

• Disease pathology and molecular mechanisms
• Therapeutic targets for potential treatments
• The safety and efficacy of new therapies

A core focus is identifying models that best reflect the etiology (causative mechanisms) or phenotype (clinical signs) of human conditions. Notably, CML has expertise in regenerative species like axolotls, which can regenerate internal organs, the central nervous system, and limbs without scarring. This makes them an ideal model for studying regeneration.

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Collaboration in Clinical Trials and Stem Cell Therapy
 

In partnership with the Center for Gene and Cellular Therapy (CGCT) at Aarhus University Hospital, CML supports clinical trials in cellular therapy across multiple conditions. A particular focus is on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), often referred to as the body’s "repair kit." MSCs work through three mechanisms:

1. Tissue repair via differentiation and integration
2. Paracrine effects for angiogenesis and immunomodulation
3. Cell-to-cell contact to promote local tissue regeneration

CML has achieved notable milestones in this field:

• In 2023, the project "Intervertebral Disc Regeneration by Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation" received approval from the Danish Medicines Agency (DMA) (EudraCT-no# 2020-004754-30).
• In 2024, a second clinical trial will launch: "Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cell Intra-articular Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis Therapy: An RCT Explorative Mode-of-Action Study" (EudraCT-no# 2023-506088-33-00).

These clinical studies are bolstered by experimental MSC research in animal models, further advancing the field of regenerative medicine.

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Cutting-Edge Bioimaging Expertise
 

CML also holds extensive expertise in bioimaging technologies, enabling non-invasive visualization of biological processes and 3D structures across different scales:

• Subcellular structures
• Cells and tissues
• Whole organisms

CML specializes in techniques such as:

• Ultrasound and fluorescence imaging
• X-ray (CT) and other optical methods

In collaboration with Aarhus University partners, CML also employs advanced MRI and radiotracer-based imaging methods. Additionally, the lab contributes to national and international initiatives, including the Danish Bioimaging Network and the EU-funded Euro-Bioimaging consortium.

With access to state-of-the-art equipment, CML continues to drive advancements in bioimaging for research and clinical applications.

Join Us in Pioneering Medical Research
 

CML is at the forefront of medical innovation, creating impactful collaborations and advancing the understanding of disease and regenerative therapies. For more information about our work, partnerships, or research opportunities, look under Join the Group

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