Projects
Investigation of the role of GARP by using cell specific knockout mice KU Leuven
Glycoprotein A repetitions predominant protein (GARP) is a transmembrane protein that captures latent transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) on the surface of amongst others regulatory T cells (Treg), platelets and endothelial cells. Latent TGF-b consists of the mature TGF-b and the latency associated peptide (LAP), which prevents mature TGF-b from binding to the TGF-b receptor. In order to be able to exert its function, latent TGF-b ...
Systematic examination of the effects of Nlgn3 deletion and R451C mutation on PV+ GABAergic interneurons: implications for behavioral phenotypes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in mice KU Leuven
Using a cell-restricted conditional knockout approach, we will determine the role of the postsynaptic neurexin cell adhesion binding partner neuroligin in PV+ GABAergic interneurons for regulating ASD-relevant behavioral phenotypes. Specifically, we will investigate whether an ASD-associated Nlgn3 deletion or R451C mutation causes behavioral deficits relevant to the core ASD symptoms. For this, we will cross Nlgn3 KO mice (Nlgn3 cKO) and ...
Functional characterization of cortical plasticity in the visual cortex of adult mice KU Leuven
Neuroplasticity is the mammalian brain’s capability to adapt structurally and functionally to changing inputs from the environment. It allows the brain to develop, learn and remember or to recover from injury to the central or peripheral nervous system. Partial or complete sensory loss can as such be compensated by the spared part of the affected modality (unimodal plasticity) or by other non-injured senses (cross-modal plasticity). In young ...
The role of regulatory T cells and Th1/Th17/Th22 cells in the pathogenesis of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Non-Alcoholic SteatoHepatitis in mice and humans. University of Antwerp
Characterization and validation of ApoE-/- Abcc6-/- mice as an animal model for rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. University of Antwerp
Studying human inflammasome signaling in an in vivo context using humanized mice Ghent University
Inflammasomes are protein complexes that mount potent pro-inflammatory responses upon sensing microbial or host-derived stress signals. Patient and in vitro human cell line observations as well as mouse model experiments have implicated inflammasome signaling in numerous diseases including sepsis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. This raised a considerable interest in exploring the possibilities for therapeutic targeting of ...
Development of advanced humanized mice as innovative technology platform for the generation of human antibodies. KU Leuven
Optimized muscle-specific expression and comprehensive characterization of antibody-encoding minicircles for the in vivo production of therapeutic antibodies in mice KU Leuven
In vivo antibody expression via antibody gene transfer is at crossroads between antibody and gene therapy. Following administration of the DNA that encodes a therapeutic antibody, the site of delivery, e.g. muscle, is turned into an antibody 'factory’, resulting in the presence of antibodies in the blood for a prolonged period of time. This innovative approach addresses several challenges associated with conventional antibody proteins, such ...
Alterations in Skeletal Muscle Plasticity with Smoking, Smoking Cessation and Vitamin D Deficiency in Mice KU Leuven
Cigarette smoking is a prime cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases, various cancers, respiratory disorders, and skeletal muscle dysfunction. The adverse effects of cigarette smoking beyond the respiratory system has been an area of rising interest, particularly its impact on skeletal muscles. Considering the capital role of skeletal muscles in movement, maintenance ...