Projects
Adeno-associated viral vectors in neurogastroenterology: a novel versatile preclinical toolbox and a first step towards gene therapy. University of Antwerp
The neuroimmune synapse: A novel paradigm for macrophageneuron interaction in the intestine KU Leuven
Increasing evidence suggests that the enteric nervous system is an important modulator of intestinal macrophage function. However, the precise molecular mechanisms that enable intestinal macrophages to communicate with enteric neurons are unexplored. I recently discovered that intestinal macrophages share several features with brain macrophages (microglia), including the formation of filopodial contacts with surrounding neurons and the high ...
Predicting outcomes of inflammatory bowel diseases: creating opportunities for personalized medicine KU Leuven
The imminent introduction of new therapies for both Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), will have a huge impact on our clinical practice in the coming years. However, it is anticipated that clinical response to each of these agents will vary significantly between individuals. Furthermore, these new therapies are expensive and long-term use may be associated with adverse events. Another important drawback for treatment with ...
Study of the neuroimmune modulation within the gastrointestinal tract during sepsis: a translational approach. University of Antwerp
EphB2-ephrin-B2 and NMDA receptor signaling as underlying mechanism of visceral hypersensitivity KU Leuven
Abdominal pain is one of the most difficult to treat symptoms in patients suffering from Functional Gastro-Intestinal Disorders (FGIDs). Recent evidence shows that visceral hypersensitivity (VHS), represents an important underlying mechanism. The most common and most studied FGID is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), characterized by chronic discomfort and abdominal pain associated with altered defecation in the absence of an organic cause. ...
The role of autophagy and the intrahepatic vascular resistance in the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). University of Antwerp
Functional characterization of Zonulin, a positive regulator of intestinal epithelial permeability, in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). KU Leuven
The project involves an in-depth study of the functional role of Zonulin in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastro-intestinal tract. We will also study its possible use as target for future treatment options (translational research).
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC)) is a multifactorial disease characterized by a chronic ...
Enteric glial cells: a new population of immunomodulators in the gut? KU Leuven
This project focuses on the interaction between the enteric glial cells and intestinal immune cells. The main topic of the study will involve the study of immunological mechanisms leading to intestinal immune homoeostasis. The intestinal immune system deploys a complex network of cells and lymphoid tissues mainly to protect the host and to prevent invasion of harmful microorganisms. Conversely, the immune system should be educated to tolerate ...
Turnover of Cx43 gap junctions versus hemichannels during metabolic stress KU Leuven
Connexin (Cx) proteins form large conductance channels mediating communication between neighboring cells via gap junctions and/or hemichannels. Intercellular communication coordinates cellular responses in tissues and organs, controlling signaling, survival and cell-death spreading. In order to assure cell survival, gap junctions and hemichannels need to be tightly regulated. Cxs have half-lives of only a few hours, and due to their fast ...