The 10th Long Night of Science in Dresden on July 6th drew tens of thousands of visitors to the research institutions of the university city in Saxony. In the foyer of the Center for Regenerative Therapies (CRTD), the stand of the German Center for Diabetes Research attracted much interest. In the CRTD and the Paul Langerhans Institute of Dresden University Hospital, both of which are partners in the DZD, there was much to see and learn about the topic of diabetes.
The DZD exhibit with its interactive stations for listening, puzzles and pegging games, and testing had something to offer for all age groups. Those who wished could take the German Diabetes Risk Test ® right there, and as part of the test, have their waist circumference measured. Others only needed a glance at their distorted reflections in the funhouse mirror to realize the importance of staying slim. Visitors could test their new knowledge in an electronic Q &A game or listen to audio files of patients who related how they lived fulfilling lives, despite diabetes.
How sweet is it?
Staff members of the Paul Langerhans Institute measured the blood glucose levels of the visitors and informed them about how much sugar different foods contain. “I’m really surprised that ready-mixed apple spritzer contains less sugar than the spritzer I mix myself!” said one woman standing in front of a table with cereal, ketchup, cookies and juices. Their sugar content was shown by towers of sugar cubes of various heights.
Diabetes under the microscope
One highlight of the guided tour “Diabetes – Research for a Life Without the Disease” through the institute was the opportunity to look through a microscope at isolated, fluorescent Langerhans islet cells. Cultured islet cells with different fluorescent markers were also shown. Along with information about current research activities of the institute, the visitors learned how insulin was developed and about the possible causes of diabetes.
Excellence in the limelight
Many families with children took part in the Long Night and were especially attracted to the various “hands-on” activities. Between 6:00 pm and 1:00 am shuttle buses transported visitors between the 122 research stations. The TU Dresden, which just prior to the Long Night had been named one of the winners of the Excellence Initiative competition, was the focus of attention. Also in the limelight were the presentations at the Center for Regenerative Therapies (CRTD), which was awarded the distinction of Cluster of Excellence for the second time.