Projects
Peroxisomal lipid and ROS signaling in mammalian cells. KU Leuven
Characterization and engineering of a polysaccharide mono-oxygenase involved in the degradation of (ligno) cellulosic biomass Ghent University
Lignocellulosic biomass is believed to be the most promising renewable feedstock for sustainable production of biofuels and commodity chemicals in biorefineries. While the need for sustainable systems is continuously increasing, the depolymerization of lignocellulose is impeded by its high recalcitrance. This makes the development of a cost-effective process extremely challenging. In enzymatic degradation, the classical view of synergistic ...
The Peroxisomal Redox Orchestra: New Melodies of Old Molecular Players KU Leuven
Eukaryotic life, viewed from a physicochemical perspective, is a remarkable phenomenon that defies all odds, as it emerges solely through the occurrence of seemingly unfavorable chemical reactions over the course of evolution. However, this fascinating concept comes with a cost: susceptibility to environmental fluctuations. As a result, cells must continually strive to reestablish and uphold equilibrium. A paradigmatic example of this is the ...
Molecular and structural aspects controlling the Prdx2 redox-relay Vrije Universiteit Brussel
cellular H2O2 scavengers. Prdxs also regulate H2O2-mediated cell
signaling through thiol-disulfide exchange reactions, also known as
redox-relays. At high cellular H2O2 concentrations, Prdxs can
become hyperoxidized, losing their peroxidase function. Furthermore,
some post-translational modification (PTMs), such as
phosphorylation of specific ...
Study and selective targeting of monomeric and trimeric gelatinase B/ MMP-9 KU Leuven
Neutrophils are the recce troops of the innate immune system. Upon neutrophil activation, vesicles transport cell adhesion molecules and proteases to the cell surface. Adhesion molecules assist in rolling, adhesion, crawling and transmigration while proteases, such as matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), assist in migration of neutrophils through basement membranes and extracellular matrix. Once at the site of inflammation, proteases modulate ...