LiSyM-Cancer II goes HITS Open Day

With an interactive hands-on station and many engaging conversations, LiSyM-Cancer program managers helped visitors learn about the fascinating functions of the liver, interesting facts about liver cancer, and the work the LiSyM-Cancer research network.

On Saturday, July 11, 2026, the LiSyM-Cancer Program Managers Dr. Susan Eckerle and Elisa Brost presented LiSyM-Cancer at the HITS Open House Day, held on the beautiful grounds of the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies.

With great enthusiasm, Susan and Elisa presented the network's research topic and engaged in conversations with interested visitors of all ages and backgrounds. They not only explained the diverse functions of the liver — one of the most efficient organs in our body — but also provided information about liver cancer, current research approaches, and the goals of our network.

The interactive multi-media station was particularly popular: Visitors could examine real histological liver samples (provided by Dr. Seddik Hammad) under two light microscopes, while illustrated books provided additional information on anatomy, histology and function. Using liver stamps, children could mark the liver’s position in the body on a comic figure. For adults, the back of the figure also featured practical tips and interesting facts about liver health.

When watched with attention, the video from the Health Knowledge Foundation provided all the information necessary to succeed in the exciting quiz, allowing guests to test their newly acquired knowledge right away and learn more about the liver in a fun way.

Special thanks go to the HITS communications team for their support and to the Klaus Tschira Youth Academy for providing the microscopes!

Photographer: © Gülay Keskin