Karlsburg/Greifswald, 8 September 2025

Dr Wolfgang Blank, Minister for Economic Affairs, Infrastructure, Tourism and Labour of the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, today handed over a funding notification worth approximately €1.05 million to the Kompetenzzentrum Diabetes Karlsburg (KDK) in Karlsburg. The grant, provided through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), is aimed at promoting technology transfer between science and industry. The KDK is a joint initiative of the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) in Greifswald and the Karlsburg Clinic of the Dr. Guth Group.

The objective is to accelerate the clinical application of new approaches to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and its complications. “With this funding, we are strengthening a centre that links science and clinical practice, transferring the knowledge generated into industrial applications. The KDK thus makes an important contribution to the innovative healthcare sector in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania,” said Minister Dr Wolfgang Blank at the official handover.

Collaboration between research and clinical practice

“With the KDK, we are establishing structures that bring research, clinical application and the healthcare industry closer together. The funding enables us to more swiftly bring new procedures from plasma medicine and diagnostics into practical use,” said Prof Dr Klaus-Dieter Weltmann, Chairman of the Board and Scientific Director of the INP.

The Karlsburg Clinic also highlighted the immediate benefits for patients. “The KDK allows us to combine cutting-edge research with our long-standing experience in diabetes treatment. This leads directly to improved patient care,” said Prof Dr med Wolfgang Motz, Medical Director of the Karlsburg Clinic.

Focus areas of the Kompetenzzentrum Diabetes Karlsburg

At the KDK, researchers and clinicians work hand in hand to develop and clinically test new procedures.

The centre’s portfolio includes laboratory analyses at the cellular level, assessments of the biocompatibility of new materials, technical evaluations of medical devices and comprehensive plasma diagnostics. The centre also supports the development of prototypes and new medical devices, as well as innovative therapeutic procedures.

Another key focus of the Kompetenzzentrum Diabetes Karlsburg is clinical research into prevention, diagnosis and therapy — not only for chronic wounds but also in the field of diabetes itself. The close proximity to patients enables rapid transfer of research findings into practice and immediate evaluation of their benefits.

Contact for media enquiries:

Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)
Stefan Gerhardt // Communications Department
Tel.: +49 3834 554 3903 // stefan.gerhardtinp-greifswaldde
Felix-Hausdorff-Straße 2 // 17489 Greifswald // www.leibniz-inp.de

Anklam/Greifswald, 26 August 2025 – The biogeniV innovation alliance, coordinated by the city of Anklam as part of the "WIR! – Change through Innovation in the Region" programme, is entering a second funding phase. The German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) is providing a total of 15 million euros for this purpose until 2028, of which 8 million euros will go towards the now approved continuation. The Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) and Cosun Beet Company (Anklam sugar factory) have been partners and spokespersons in the alliance since the project began.

biogeniV has been funded since 2022 to develop new ways of sustainable and regional energy and fuel supply in collaboration with stakeholders from science, industry, agriculture and the municipality of Anklam. In the first funding phase, promising approaches for producing green methanol and processing biogas using membrane technology were developed.

The second phase of the project is now beginning with the implementation. This includes the design of the Anklamer EnergieRegion AnkER – a regional project that brings together the development and use of innovative energy technologies in an exemplary manner. Public events are also planned to give citizens an insight into the ongoing projects.

"This funding commitment is a strong signal of our region's innovative strength. It confirms the successful path we have taken with biogeniV and opens up new perspectives for the sustainable development of Anklam and the surrounding area," explains Michael Galander, Mayor of Anklam and spokesperson for the biogeniV alliance.

The INP is contributing its expertise in plasma technology and the material utilisation of biogenic residues to the alliance. The aim is to further develop decentralised, low-carbon processes for practical applications.

"With biogeniV, we are creating a green energy region based in the Hanseatic city of Anklam through close cooperation between research, industry and society. The aim is to generate green energy and recyclable materials from previously unused biogenic residues and CO₂ and to strengthen local value creation," adds Prof. Dr. Dirk Uhrlandt, member of the INP Board of Directors and also spokesperson for the biogeniV alliance.

The underlying strategic concept has been further developed for the second phase. It shows how the region around Anklam can benefit from innovative technologies and value chains based on biogenic resources.

Contact for media enquiries:

Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology e.V. (INP)

Stefan Gerhardt // Communications Department

Tel.: +49 3834 554 3903 // stefan.gerhardt@inp-greifswald.de

Felix-Hausdorff-Straße 2 // 17489 Greifswald // www.leibniz-inp.de

Greifswald, 21 August 2025 – Researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) have collaborated with partners at Greifswald University Hospital and University Medical Centre Rostock to demonstrate that cold plasma can effectively combat tumour cells even in deeper tissue layers. What is particularly noteworthy is that, by developing new tissue models, they were able to precisely investigate the effect of individual plasma components on tumour cells for the first time.

What is cold plasma?

Plasma is an ionised gas that produces a large number of chemically reactive molecules known as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. These short-lived molecules can have a strong influence on biological processes such as the growth or death of tumour cells.

New tissue models provide important insights

"The effect of plasma in tissue is very complex and little understood. We have therefore developed a 3D model made of hydrogels that mimics real tumour tissue. In this model, we were able to observe exactly how deep the molecules from the plasma penetrate – and which of these molecules are important for the effect on tumour cells," explains Lea Miebach, first author of the study. Particularly short-lived molecules such as peroxynitrite penetrated several millimetres deep into the tissue. Hydrogen peroxide, which had previously been considered the main active ingredient in laboratory research, showed little effect: even when it was specifically removed, the effect of the plasma remained strong.

Use during surgery also conceivable

Another model investigated how well plasma could work in the follow-up treatment of tumour surgery. Residual tumour cells at the edge of an artificial surgical wound were specifically treated with plasma. The result: here too, a strong effect was observed, especially in cells that had already spread into the surrounding tissue. These findings could help to better prevent relapses after surgery.

Important step for plasma medicine

"Our results could significantly improve the medical application of plasma," says Prof. Dr. Sander Bekeschus, head of the Plasma Medicine research programme at INP. "The better we understand which molecules are active in the tissue, the more precisely plasma devices can be used for specific types of cancer."

The work was carried out using the medically approved plasma jet "kINPen". In the long term, the method could help make therapies more effective and gentler.

About the study

The results were published in the journal Trends in Biotechnology. The title of the article is: "Gas plasma technology mediates deep tissue and anticancer events independently of hydrogen peroxide." https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167779925002653

Contact for media enquiries:
Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)
Stefan Gerhardt // Communications Department
Tel.: +49 3834 554 3903 // stefan.gerhardt@inp-greifswald.de
Felix-Hausdorff-Straße 2 // 17489 Greifswald // www.leibniz-inp.de

Greifswald, 30 June 2025

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is sending a strong signal for the transition to a climate-neutral energy future: State Secretary Jochen Schulte, representing Minister of Economic Affairs Dr. Wolfgang Blank, today officially opened the new PtX plasma development environment at the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) in Greifswald. The facility is part of the state-wide Hydrogen MV research factory and marks an important milestone for the further development and establishment of innovative technologies for the energy transition in the northeast.

“With the innovative Hydrogen Research Factory MV project in Greifswald, we are investing specifically in a technology that has the potential to make hydrogen production more efficient and environmentally friendly,” explained Dr Wolfgang Blank, the Minister for Economic Affairs. ‘This research facility not only strengthens Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania as a centre of science, but also offers opportunities for the economic development of our region.’

The Hydrogen Research Factory MV is a joint project of the INP in Greifswald, the Fraunhofer Institute for Large Structures in Production Engineering (IGP) in Rostock, and the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis (LIKAT) in Rostock. The alliance's aim is to develop practical technologies for the green hydrogen economy that are application-oriented, decentralised and cross-sectoral.

Efficient, emission-free and versatile, plasmalysis at the INP

At the heart of the new research location is the development and testing of plasmalysis, a process for producing hydrogen from methane. Unlike conventional electrolysis, plasmalysis requires only around 20 per cent of the electrical energy, and it also produces solid carbon as a usable by-product. This process combines resource efficiency with climate protection, opening up new opportunities for value creation in various industries.

“Plasma technology can play a central role in phasing out fossil fuels,” emphasises Prof. Dr. Klaus-Dieter Weltmann, Scientific Director and Chairman of the Board at INP. ‘With our new development environment, we can develop processes under real conditions for use in biogas plants, ports and mobile systems. This will enable the efficient, local supply of hydrogen and carbon close to where they will be needed for future energy supply.’

Plasmalysis is particularly well-suited to applications where hydrogen is to be used directly on site. Examples include:

• Biogas plants that convert green methane into emission-free hydrogen and solid carbon, which opens up new sources of income while removing CO₂ from the atmosphere in the long term;
• LNG terminals and port locations, where fossil liquefied natural gas (LNG) can be used in a more climate-friendly way;
• Maritime applications, where Plasmalysis can contribute to a low-emission energy supply directly on board, are another step towards climate-friendly propulsion solutions;
• Decentralised energy systems in industrial parks or rural regions, where the compact container design allows for flexible, grid-independent use.

Funding from the state has made Greifswald a location for innovation

The state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is supporting the establishment of the research factory in Greifswald with funding of over four million euros. This funding is part of a strategic investment programme financed by the European Union. The Ministry of Economic Affairs is using this programme to specifically support the transition to sustainable industry in the state.

The PtX plasma development environment in Greifswald also reinforces the city's position as an international centre of excellence for plasma technologies, an area of research that is becoming increasingly important for energy, environmental and industrial applications.

Symposium on hydrogen technologies highlights potential applications

Following the opening ceremony, a symposium organised by the HyCore hydrogen innovation cluster was held at the INP. Experts from industry and research presented innovative approaches to hydrogen and synthesis gas production from methane – for example, for biogas plants, maritime applications or decentralised energy supply.

Dr. Jan Hummel, project manager at the INP research factory, presented the key features of the new plasmalysis plant, outlined further planning and development, and highlighted its contribution to the energy transition and its intended industrial use.

Media contact:
Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology e.V. (INP)
Stefan Gerhardt // Communications Department
Tel.: +49 3834 554 3903 // stefan.gerhardtinp-greifswaldde
Felix-Hausdorff-Straße 2 // 17489 Greifswald // www.leibniz-inp.de

Greifswald, 24 June 2025

On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of its first successful spin-off, the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) looks back on two decades of intensive transfer work. Since 2003, the institute has pursued a strategically oriented transfer policy that translates scientific findings into marketable applications. Six spin-offs have been created as part of this strategy – proof of the successful transfer of research results into practice.

‘As a publicly funded institute, it is our mission to create direct benefits for society through our research. Successful transfer is a central component of this,’ says Prof. Dr. Klaus-Dieter Weltmann, Chairman of the Executive Board and Scientific Director of INP. "Our motto “From idea to prototype” is not just a slogan, but a way of life. We accompany technologies from the basic idea to market maturity – together with partners from research, industry and clinics."

The INP's transfer strategy is closely linked to the goals of the Leibniz Association. The association sees itself as a bridge between science, society and industry and actively supports the commercial exploitation of research results.

Six successful spin-offs – regional roots, international impact

Since neoplas GmbH was founded in 2005, the INP has spun off a total of six companies together with partners. neoplas GmbH acts as a technology transfer centre and forms the bridge between scientific development and industrial application. One year later, neoplas control GmbH followed, a company specialising in the development of measurement and control technology for plasma processes.

In the medical field, neoplas med GmbH was founded in 2009. Its best-known product, kINPen® MED, is approved for the treatment of chronic wounds. In 2015, ColdPlasmaTech GmbH joined the ranks of companies active in the field of plasma medicine, focusing on applications for large-area wounds. Both companies have attracted international investors.

Nebula Biocides GmbH, founded in 2019, is developing an innovative disinfection process that does not require alcohol or chemical residues. The most recent spin-off is elementarhy GmbH, founded in 2024, which is developing plasma-based processes for key components of green hydrogen production.

‘Revenue from patents, licences, industrial projects and collaborations enables us to support spin-offs as they enter the market, thereby creating jobs in the region,’ adds Weltmann.

Technology transfer at the INP is not only a regional economic factor, but also contributes to Germany's innovative strength. Close cooperation with industry, involvement in clinical studies and international partnerships result in products that are used worldwide – whether in medical technology, environmental technology or industrial production.

Media contact:
Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP)
Stefan Gerhardt // Communications Department
Tel.: +49 3834 554 3903 // stefan.gerhardtinp-greifswaldde
Felix-Hausdorff-Straße 2 // 17489 Greifswald // www.leibniz-inp.de

Greifswald, 5 June 2025 – Dr Helga Andree took up her position as Administrative Board Member and Chief Financial Officer at the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) in Greifswald on 1 June 2025. With her many years of experience in scientific management, she is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the institute's financial and organisational development.

Dr Andree was most recently Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences. There, she focused on digitalisation and closer integration between research and teaching. She previously held the position of Administrative Director at the Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology in Berlin, headed the office of a Cluster of Excellence at the University of Kiel, and has many years of experience in research and teaching.

“Dr Helga Andree brings an exceptionally broad range of expertise to the role, gained through her previous positions in university research, the administrative management of scientific institutions, and strategic planning in higher education,” says Prof Dr Klaus-Dieter Weltmann, Chairman of the Board and Scientific Director of the INP. “We are very much looking forward to working with her and to her providing new impetus for the administrative and organisational development of the institute.”

Dr Andree studied chemistry at the Free University of Berlin and agricultural sciences at the University of Kiel. Her professional career combines management experience with a deep understanding of research institution structures.

As an administrative member of the Board of Directors and Chief Financial Officer, she will be responsible for the INP's administrative areas. At the last meeting of the INP Board of Trustees, Prof Dr Thomas von Woedtke and Prof Dr Dirk Uhrlandt were confirmed in their positions as members of the Board of Directors, alongside the Scientific Director and Chairman of the Board, Prof Dr Klaus-Dieter Weltmann. Together, the Board of Directors team will lay the groundwork for the institute's future development.

Greifswald, April 16, 2025 – Seeds are facing increasing challenges: fungal pathogens such as anthracnose, loose smut in barley, and common bunt in wheat threaten agricultural yields and quality. At the same time, chemical seed treatments are under growing pressure due to regulatory requirements and environmental concerns. Against this backdrop, research into physical alternatives is gaining importance.

As part of the PHYSICS FOR SEED TREATMENT research project—conducted within the BMBF-funded WIR! Alliance PHYSICS FOR FOOD—scientists investigated seed disinfection using cold plasma. The aim was to develop a reliable, environmentally friendly alternative to chemical treatments. “Our results show that plasma treatment, in certain cases, achieved effects similar to established methods,” explains project leader Dr. Nicola Wannicke from the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP). In addition, positive effects on seedling emergence and yields were observed following the plasma treatment. At one site, an increase of around 6 decitonnes per hectare was recorded for winter barley in 2023. This is an additional benefit on top of improved seed hygiene, which could provide an incentive for future practical application.

Focus on seed-borne diseases
The project focused on combating loose smut in barley and common bunt in wheat. Both pathogens can cause considerable damage and reduce the germination capacity of the plants. While lab experiments had already demonstrated the effectiveness of plasma treatment, field trials yielded important insights into practical application.

Challenges for practical use
The research results could play a decisive role, especially for organic farming, where the use of chemically treated seeds is severely restricted. “If, in future, only seed that has been untreated for years may be used, these diseases could spread rapidly,” warns Dr. Andreas Jacobi of Saatzucht Bauer GmbH & Co. KG. “Plasma technology could be a crucial solution to mitigate this risk.”

A major challenge for the project was sourcing naturally infected seeds, which are needed for realistic testing but are hardly available on the market. Furthermore, field trials with common bunt in wheat proved especially demanding, as the pathogen can pass into the soil. Finding suitable test plots was difficult, since farmers are understandably wary of contaminating their fields.

Further research needed
Although the project has been successfully completed, further research is required. “The results so far are promising, but for widespread agricultural use, we must demonstrate efficacy under varying conditions and study the long-term effects of plasma treatment on seed quality and plant development in greater detail,” emphasizes Dr. Nicola Wannicke.

About PHYSICS FOR FOOD
Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences, the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), and business partners launched the ‘PHYSICS FOR FOOD – A REGION RETHINKS!’ project in 2018. Since then, the alliance, together with numerous additional partners, has been developing new physical technologies for agriculture and food processing. These include the use of atmospheric pressure plasma, pulsed electric fields, and UV light.

The goal is to optimize agricultural raw materials, reduce contaminants in food production, decrease the need for chemical seed treatments, and strengthen plants against the impacts of climate change. The initiative is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) under the program ‘WIR! – Change Through Innovation in the Region’ (Funding code 03WIR2810).

Further information: www.physicsforfood.org