Projects
Role of cell adhesion mediated signaling in craniofacial malformations: an integrated molecular morphological study Ghent University
By analysis and generation of appropriate animal models (Xenopus, zebrafish, mouse), a multidisciplinary consortium aims at obtaining a deeper insight of the role of cell-cell adhesion molecules (cadherins, protocadherins) and associated signaling pathways (catenins, Wnt signaling) in the formation of complex head structures. Over time these models will serve the genetic analysis of human craniofacial malformations.
Adhesion molecules can regulate voltage-gated sodium channel function. Ghent University
In this proposal, I intend to further explore preliminary data suggesting that three new cell adhesion molecules can modulate voltage-gated sodium channel function as part of the interactome. Upon completion, this project will provide new insights into the channel interactome and establish a baseline for future studies investigating channel localization and clustering in excitable cell membranes.
Role and regulation of osteogenic cell adhesion and migration in skeletal devel opment and fracture repair. KU Leuven
These studies aim to bring new insights in the mechanisms of cell adhesion and migration in skeletal development and their potential therapeutic value for bone pathologies such as nonunion fractures.
Development of new experimental techniques for measuring adhesion in complex materials systems using a combinatorial approach. KU Leuven
Role of cell adhesion-mediated signaling in craniofacial malformations: an integrated molecular and morphological study Ghent University
The research consortium analyzes how classical cadherins and delta-protocadherins, as well as their associated intracellular signaling pathways, are involved in correct development of complex craniofacial structures. Xenopus models will be used to screen for the most relevant molecules; those will be analyzed functionally in both Xenopus and zebrafish; the most interesting molecules will eventually be analyzed in mouse models.
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Data driven modeling of cell shapes and movements in multicellular systems. KU Leuven
Unraveling how cells move and self organize in a multicellular setting
is crucial for understanding a variety of biological processes like
embryogenesis, tissue formation and many diseases. This is a highly
dynamic process, where cells move and change shape guided by
biochemical as well as physical cues. A precise reconstruction of cell
shape over time provides detailed information on force generation ...
Evans blue as a diagnostic tool for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer and interstitial cystitis : a preclinical study. KU Leuven
Functional Materials to Optically Report Cellular Forces in Natural ECM KU Leuven
Cells are known to probe their environment by applying force to it. As a result, cells adapt their behaviour to the properties of extracellular matrix (ECM) and the forces applied to the system. An increasing number of reports shows that mechanical cues provide additional inputs into molecular signaling networks, which in turn regulate cell adhesion and ECM remodeling. Despite the growing interest in the field, understanding ...