The European Union's complex and unpredictable decision process is hindering the introduction of genetically modified trees to the market. The current procedure involves extensive risk analyses, which are costly and time-consuming, making it difficult for scientists to predict the long-term consequences of GM tree use.
This comprehensive genome analysis of Zostera marina provides unique insights into the genomic losses and gains involved in adapting to full marine conditions. Seagrasses have regained functions enabling them to adjust to salinity, a key innovation for these plants.
Scientists identify protein interference with nucleocytoplasmic transport as essential for causing ALS and FTD. Toxic dipeptide repeat proteins translate from repeat-containing RNA disrupt normal cellular function.
A study has uncovered a complex planktonic network influencing the ocean's biological carbon pump, which removes carbon from the atmosphere. The research found that certain bacterial and viral genes predict variations in carbon export, enabling better predictions of climate change effects.
A previously unknown mechanism regulating neurogenesis has been discovered, involving precise temporal control of proneural protein activity. This mechanism involves a reversible chemical modification that enables the establishment of a network of functional neurons.
Scientists uncover the structural and functional properties of the BabA protein, which adapts to different ABO blood group sugars in humans. The discovery provides perspectives on developing drugs that disrupt bacterial attachment and eradicating Helicobacter pylori infections.
Researchers discovered that altering poplar wood composition affects tree microbiome structure and function. Modifications led to changes in bacterial communities within the endosphere, but not outside the plant tissue.
VIB researchers identify PHD1 as a potential therapeutic target for treating brain infarction and ischemic stroke. Inhibition of PHD1 offers protection against stroke via an unexpected mechanism, reprogramming glucose utilization to detoxify toxic oxygen radicals.
Activated dendritic cells use phagocytosis to process and present antigens, promoting immune responses. Researchers discovered that a delay in lysosome fusion after phagocytosis prevents excessive antigen degradation and promotes cross-presentation.
A team of scientists has discovered a mechanism by which tumor cells elevate levels of MDM4, a protein highly expressed in cancer cells. Targeting MDM4 abundance with antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) impairs tumour growth and increases cell death, offering a promising clinically-compatible therapeutic target for various cancers.
Researchers studied gustatory computations in zebrafish brainstem circuits, revealing that taste categories are represented by dissimilar responses and generate different behaviors. The study proposed a central role for encoding category, concentration, and mixtures of taste in these circuits.
Researchers have uncovered a mechanism that helps repair damaged synapses, enabling optimal neuronal communication. This discovery highlights the importance of microautophagy in breaking down cellular debris and may lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Researchers have identified GPR3 as a potential therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease, finding that its absence alleviates cognitive decline and reduces amyloid pathology in multiple models. The study provides preclinical validation for GPR3, setting the stage for future AD drug development.
The IKK complex plays an unexpected role in protecting cells from death by inactivating RIPK1. This discovery reveals a new mechanism of action for the IKK complex beyond its well-known NF-kB-dependent functions, providing potential therapeutic targets for inflammatory conditions.
BACE1 and APH1B-y-secretase control axonal guidance by regulating growth cone collapse and restoration. Inhibition of these proteases may have physiologically opposite effects, suggesting cautious combination therapies to mitigate side effects.
VIB and UGent scientists developed a new method to predict plant size by analyzing RNA molecules. This approach allows breeders to select disease-resistant plants earlier and accelerate breeding programs. The study's findings have the potential to improve agricultural productivity and address global food security challenges.
Researchers at VIB discovered that exposure to farm dust reduces the severity of allergic reactions in mice. In humans, a deficiency in the protective protein A20 is found in those who suffer from allergies and asthma. The study paves the way for the development of an asthma vaccine.
Mutations in genes involved in synaptic communication can drive neuropsychiatric and neurological diseases like autism spectrum disorder and Alzheimer's disease. Disruption of a new sorting pathway severely hampers neuron-neuron communication.
Researchers at VIB and KU Leuven found that inhibiting PHD1 prevents p53 activation, leading to improved response to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer cells. This discovery offers new therapeutic potential for increasing sensitivity to chemotherapeutic treatments.
Scientists at VIB and KU Leuven discovered polyglutamine repeats play a key role in functional development of cells. Excessive repeats cause neurodegenerative disorders, but moderate expansions may enable dynamic changes in cell physiology.
Researchers developed a web tool to estimate the impact of genetic modification of mice, which can complicate biomedical research interpretation. The tool aids in explaining controversies and improving translation from lab animals to humans.
Researchers at VIB have identified a promising target pathway for treating fragile X syndrome and autism. By targeting the APP-ADAM10 pathway, scientists may be able to ameliorate deficits associated with these conditions. The study's findings open new avenues for developing non-toxic therapeutic agents.
Scientists have identified key genetic mutations leading to skin cancer progression, similar to those found in human cancers. By analyzing genetic abnormalities in premalignant and fully malignant tumors, researchers found that larger chromosomal copy number alterations were responsible for tumor formation, rather than point mutations.
A study published in Gut found that anxiety and depression prior to a water contamination incident increased the severity of gastrointestinal infections and the risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome. Psychological factors can play a key role in preventing long-term complications.
Researchers discovered that synapses facilitate the spread of Tau aggregates in Alzheimer's patients, which could counteract synaptic repair efforts. This new understanding has significant implications for developing therapeutic strategies against Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found that MET inhibitors can have a double-edged effect on tumors, promoting cell-cycle arrest or death in cancer cells while blunting pro-inflammatory reactions in neutrophils. This discovery could lead to optimizing cancer treatment by stratifying patients based on MET expression and dependency.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding brain cell communication and developed a fruit fly model to study neurodegeneration. By partially inhibiting the breakdown of 'defective' proteins, they were able to completely suppress neurodegeneration in fruit flies.
Scientists have pinpointed a novel role of FMRP in the embryonic development of the brain cortex, leading to delays in proper formation and affecting postnatal life and brain connectivity. The study may provide insights into cellular mechanisms affected in patients with Fragile X syndrome and autism spectrum disorders.
Researchers, led by Bart De Strooper, have found that failed Alzheimer's tests can teach valuable lessons for future research. Studies on γ-secretases and Aβ-peptides may still hold promise in treating the disease, but more fundamental research is needed to bridge the current knowledge gap.
Scientists at VIB and Ghent University have developed a promising vaccination strategy to counteract Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections. The new vaccine candidate uses a novel approach, stimulating macrophages to selectively eliminate infected cells, providing protection in lab animals.
Beer yeasts produce chemicals that mimic fruits to attract flies, which carry them to new food sources. This attraction allows yeast cells to disperse into broader ecosystems, influencing the flavor of beverages like beer and wine.
Researchers analyzed genetic information from 356 patients and identified novel causes for severe childhood epilepsies. Strong evidence was found for additional novel genes involved in synapse function, which may help address underlying disease mechanisms and improve treatment options.
Researchers at VIB/VUB have created a detailed three-dimensional image of the pores through which curli building blocks cross the bacterial cell wall, shedding light on biofilm formation. This breakthrough could lead to the development of small molecules that inhibit unwanted biofilm growth and pave the way for new applications in fiel...
The Jeffrey Modell Foundation has awarded a research grant to a Belgian laboratory led by Adrian Liston to develop a gene therapy for children suffering from IPEX syndrome. The gene therapy aims to correct the mutation responsible for the disease, offering a potential cure for this rare and fatal autoimmune disorder.
Scientists used zebrafish as a model to study the regulation of stem cells in nerve tissue, discovering a previously unknown process that may contribute to Alzheimer's disease. They found that reducing miRNA-132 levels in zebrafish impairs stem cell development and blocks further maturation into nerve cells.
Chloroquine has been shown to inhibit tumor growth and metastases by normalizing abnormal blood vessels in tumors. This results in an increased barrier function blocking cancer cell dissemination and enhanced tumor perfusion increasing the response of the tumor to chemotherapy.
A review article by scientists from VIB and KU Leuven suggests that thorough research into the cell metabolism of stromal cells, endothelial cells, and immune cells could result in new treatment options for these diseases. This would also improve current cancer treatments.
Rheumatoid arthritis is considered a syndrome rather than a single disease, and blocking inflammasomes may be an effective therapeutic target. Researchers have developed a mouse model that demonstrates the role of inflammasomes in RA and show promise for new treatments.
Researchers found over-activity of enzyme HDAC6 exacerbates ALS symptoms in fruit-flies, highlighting potential therapeutic avenues. Inhibition of HDAC6 may offer protective effects against the disease.
Research reveals how neurons create and integrate with each other, shedding light on neurological diseases like autism. The study identifies Dscam1 protein variations as key to forming complex neural networks.
Researchers have unraveled the mechanism of necroptosis, a type of cell death linked to various diseases. Understanding this process enables the development of targeted medications to block or stimulate necroptosis, potentially treating chronic and acute inflammatory and degenerative diseases.
A new technology developed by VIB/UGent scientists has simplified the production of biotech medicines by truncating complex sugar structures, retaining therapeutic efficiency. This innovation has the potential to make biotech medicine production cheaper and more efficient.
Researchers uncover molecular mechanism behind Parkinson's disease, linking faulty energy production to the Pink1 gene. Correcting this defect may hold promise for treating the condition.
Researchers discover that the habenula, a brain structure, acts as a switchboard for sensory information, regulating behavior in response to external stimuli. Spontaneous neural activity plays a key role in this process.
Researchers have identified a novel protein complex, TPLATE, essential for plant endocytosis, which is unique to plants. The discovery sheds light on the process of endocytosis and its importance in plant cells.
Researchers at VIB and UGent have discovered a potential novel treatment for sepsis by neutralizing two harmful cytokines in the blood circulation. This approach may benefit from existing anti-cytokine treatments already in clinical use, offering renewed hope for combating this life-threatening disease.
Researchers at VIB have identified a chemical substance that can disarm pathogenic bacteria, allowing them to treat urinary tract infections without destroying beneficial bacteria. This approach could provide a lower risk of resistance development and spread.
Researchers at VIB and Ghent University discovered a protein complex that regulates the transition from cell division to cell specialization in leaves. By extending the activity of this complex, more cells divide, resulting in larger leaves.
A new gene, CHD2, has been found to be responsible for a subset of epilepsy patients with symptoms similar to Dravet syndrome. This discovery offers new diagnostic tools and potential treatments for families affected by the condition.
The field trial with genetically modified poplar trees demonstrates that lignin modification can improve sugar conversion and increase ethanol production. The results also show mixed suppression of the lignin biosynthesis in the trees, leading to variable coloration and growth rates.