Projects
Immunoediting and immune evasion mechanisms in the treated and untreated cancer genome Ghent University
Tumour-immune interactions during tumour evolution result in immunoediting and immune evasion. The goal of this project is to use large cancer genome databases to identify the underlying genomic alterations, in both the untreated cancer genome and following treatment with immunomodulating agents. Results can be exploited to predict differential responses to cancer immunotherapy.
Role of viral glycans and siglec receptors for infection of macrophages and viral immune evasion Ghent University
The role of different siglec receptors for viral infection of macrophages and the potential role of siglec-specific virus internatlization for immune evasion will be studied.
Immune evasion of eqiune herpesvirus type 1 Ghent University
Equine herpesvirus type 1 or EHV-1 is a constant treat to horses worldwide. Rationally modifying genes which are involved in immune modulation, and elucidating the effects of such modifications on the degree of immune protection, are indispensable for the design and generation of efficacious and safe modified live vaccines against infections with EHV-1.
The development of an anti-immune evasion therapy for FIV Ghent University
Combined targeting of the epidermal growth factor receptor and the innate immune system: a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of head and neck cancer. University of Antwerp
Immune responses of swine to highly virulent Chinese porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) Ghent University
PRRS continues to be a threat for the pig industry. In 2006, a highly pathogenic PRRSV variant emerged in China. Current vaccines are ineffective because of the genetic variation and the immune evasion strategies of the virus in the field. This PhD study aims to provide information on (i) a new adaptable candidate vaccine to protect pigs from highly pathogenic PRRSV and (ii) the cell-mediated immune response evoked by the highly pathogenic ...
Immune responses of swine to highly virulent Chinese porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) Ghent University
In June 2006, a highly pathogenic PRRSV variant emerged in China. This project aims to determine whether this highly pathogenic PRRSV variant is more immune-evasive compared to a low pathogenic Chinese PRRSV variant. Therefore, natural killer cell and cytotoxic T-cell responses will be investigated in pigs, that are infected with either of these PRRSV variants.
Elucidation of the molecular basis for the activation of trypanosomal receptor adenylate cyclases by stimulus-induced ectodomain conformational change. University of Antwerp
Identification of alphaherpesvirus mechanisms that suppress the activity of plasmacytoid dendritic cells Ghent University
Plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) are a unique immune cell population, producing massive amounts of antiviral type I interferon (IFN-I) upon virus infection. Using pseudorabies virus (PRV), an alphaherpesvirus of pig, we have recently generated cell culture-adapted PRV strains that hyperactivate IFN-I production by porcine pDC. Using these strains, we will now identify pDC evasion strategies of alphaherpesviruses.