DIfE scientists perform research in an interdisciplinary manner and using a broad spectrum of scientific, medical and epidemiological methodologies. The insights gained on the molecular level can be verified in epidemiological study populations or in intervention studies, and can then be transferred to humans by means of translational research. As a partner in national and international projects, DIfE contributes to the development and shaping of nutrition and health research through its expertise. DIfE participates in two German Centers for Health Research, funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF): the German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) and the German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK). It also partners in the upcoming new German Center for Mental Health (DZPG). DIfE operates the EPIC-Potsdam Study and the Study Center Berlin-South/Brandenburg of the German National Cohort (GNC). Moreover, it has coordinated the NutriAct competence cluster Berlin-Potsdam until the end of 2021.
Since the institute was founded in 1992, DIfE researchers have made significant contributions to recognize the causes of nutrition-related diseases. For example, they identified biomarkers and gene variants that raise the risk for overweight and diabetes. In addition, they developed the DIfE – GERMAN DIABETES RISK SCORE. By means of the score, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be determined. The test helps identify individuals at high risk so that targeted preventive measures can be initiated.
In the future, current issues in the field of healthy and sustainable nutrition will also be in focus of DIfE researchers. For example, DIfE coordinates the Leibniz Research Network "Green Nutrition - Healthy Society".
