Researcher

Vincent Segers

Research Expertise:The main focus of our research is communication between endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes. More specifically, we are interested in endothelial derived proteins – such as NRG-1 – that influence cardiac function and cardiac remodeling. We are also investigating other proteins that could play a role in this communication. Furthermore, we are interested in the role of the Neuregulin-1/ErbB4 system in other organ systems and diseases such as kidneys, lungs and fibrotic disorders. The laboratory of PhysioPharmacology is one of the leading laboratories in NRG-1/ErbB4 biology. We published several manuscripts on this topic and made 5 different transgenic ErbB4 KO mice. The ultimate goal is to develop new therapies for common and deadly cardiovascular diseases.

Keywords:HEART FAILURE, ENDOTHELIAL CELLS, NEUREGULIN-1, CARDIOLOGY, Pharmacy and pharmacology

Disciplines:Cardiology, Vascular diseases, In vitro testing, Drug discovery and development not elsewhere classified

Research techniques:We have technical capabilities in following area's: New state-of-the-art animal facility for rodents and large animals and 2 fully equipped rooms for rodent surgery. High-Frequency Ultrasound Imaging System VisualSonics Vevo 2100. Millar catheterization setup for invasive measurements of hemodynamics. Also echocardiography (Toshiba) and fluoroscopy equipment dedicated for large animal research are present in the lab. Rodent telemetry setup. Transgenic mouse models. Rodent models of myocardial infarction, pressure overload, ischemia-reperfusion, hindlimb-ischemia, skin fibrosis, lung fibrosis, wound healing, acute and chronic nephropathy, cellular senescence, and atrial fibrillation. Fully equipped histology and molecular biology facilities. Protein and tissue engineering. Development of stem cell, protein, and small-molecule therapies.

Users of research expertise:Biotech or pharmaceutical companies interested in cardiovascular diseases.