Projects
Role of monocytic cells in the pathogenesis of nephropathogenic infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) in chickens Ghent University
We have recently found that respiratory and nephropathogenic IBVs show similar replication kinetics in respiratory mucosa explants whereas they replicate differently in monocytic cells: nephropathogenic IBV causes a sustainable replication whereas respiratory IBV does not. Now, we want to find out if this in vitro finding may explain why nephropathogenic IBV spreads to the kidneys.
Impact of stromal cells of different lymphoid tissues on the replication of feline immunodeficiency virus in monocytic cells and T-lymphocytes Ghent University
FIV is an important cat pathogen that causes a lifelong infection. Recently, it was shown that lymphoid tissues are sites of productive viral replication, while replication is silenced in blood. In this project, stromal cells from different lymphoid tissues (lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen) will be isolated and immortalized and their positive effect on FIV replication in monocytic cells and T-lymphocytes will be examined.
The TIE receptors in podocytes Ghent University
Extracellular vesicles from follicular fluid are key for successful development of fresh and vitrified equine oocytes Ghent University
In vitro embryo production has become a popular breeding technique in horses, but suboptimal conditions for in vitro maturation and oocyte cryopreservation limit its full potential. When in vivo matured oocytes are used, high embryo development rates can be achieved with both fresh and vitrified oocytes, indicating the presence of crucial signaling factors in the natural environment, the growing follicle. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), present ...
Generation of oocytes from isolated stem cells in pigs. University of Antwerp
Development of polymeric nanoparticle carriers for targeted drug delivery to oocytes. University of Antwerp
Mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum stress in oocytes and embryos as treatment targets for infertile patients with metabolic diseases. University of Antwerp
Cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation in pig oocytes Ghent University
The removal of the oocyte from the follicle can affect its developmental competence by a premature drop in cAMP levels. We hypothesize that keeping cAMP levels high during early stages of in vitro maturation will increase normal fertilization rates and predict that both oocyte-secreted factors and proteins/proteases present in the follicular fluid, play a key role in preventing polyspermy.