Projects
Precision genomics in neurodegenerative brain disease: from patients to small model organisms and single cells Ghent University
We will study genomic aspects of rare neurodegenerative brain disorders (NBD). First, we will establish a multidisciplinary clinical neurogenetics program at UZ Gent. Second, we will use fruit flies to study the potential pathogenic nature of novel NBD-related genetic variants. Third, we will use single-cell sequencing to study the role of genomic mosaicism in neurodegeneration.
Neuroendocrine control of reproduction in ecdysozoan model organisms: from genomics to phenomics. KU Leuven
Neuroendocrine control of reproduction in ecdysozoan model organisms: from genomics to phenomics. KU Leuven
Epigenetic control of phenotypes relevant for aquaculture species, using the brine shrimp Artemia as model organism Ghent University
Epigenetic changes can activate or reduce the activity of particular genes. Apparently epigenetic changes can get inherited acroos generations. The molecular mechanisms behind epigenetics changes can be more easily studied in genetically identical organisms. Parthenogenetic Artemia is an excellent model organism for epigenetic studies because clonal cultures can be obtained easily. This project aims at investigating the phenotypes that are ...
Host-microbiota interactions in hypersaline ecosystems, using Artemia as model organism Ghent University
The present research proposal aims to investigate the potential of halophilic bacteria and Archaea, occurring in hypersaline ecosystems as: (1) an alternative feed source in the management of intensive Artemia pond production; and (2) as agent to improve the health status (stress resistance and immunological condition) of filter feeding aquaculture species, using Artemia as model organism.
Study of the pathogenesis of arterial tortuosity by using zebrafish as a model organism Ghent University
The arterial tortuosity syndrome (ATS) is a recessive inherited disorder, mainly characterized by tortuosity of the arteries and caused by mutations in the SLC2A10 gene. We aim to further study the pathogenetic mechanisms in the ATS zebrafish model, that we have established previously. Finally, we will attempt to validate the zebrafish findings in a human model system using cell lines.
Xenobiotic metabolism in the chelicerate model organism Tetranychus urticae, in relation to acaricide resistance and host range Ghent University
The main aim of this projext is to study xenobiotic metabolism in T. urticae, taking advantage of the recently completed whole genome sequence and our genome annotation efforts. We will study the physiological adaptation mechanisms of T. urticae to both natural (plan allelochemicals) and synthetic (pesticides) xenobiotics. By this joint approach, we want to unravel in the long term whether similar genes are involved in the 'first defence' ...
The effect of soil pH on molecular-biochemical markers of metal stress responses in plants (model organism and crops) Hasselt University
Unlocking powerful non-model organisms in microbial synthetic biology - POSSIBL Ghent University
Synthetic biology is a new discipline that allows designing and creating novel, completely man-made biological systems such as metabolic pathways. The innovative technology is a game-changer for the sustainable production of pharmaceuticals, biofuels, enzymes, aroma compounds and bioplastics. The
synthetic systems are often implemented in E. coli or yeast cells because the biotechnological toolbox for these organisms is readily ...