Research

The VRC aspires to address medically relevant questions and study important biological processes via interdisciplinary basic research. By unraveling the genetic basis, we hope to deconvolute complex biological diseases into definable targets, that can be used for development of novel therapeutic concepts. The longterm objectives of the VRC are: 

• to capitalize on the existing expertise in angiogenesis: by further unraveling its genetic basis; by discovering novel angiogenic genes and studying their function in vivo; by screening, identifying and evaluating the therapeutic potential of novel (“in house developed”) angiogenesis inhibitors preclinically and clinically and, via strategies from the bench to the bedside and back again, improve the overall efficacy of and reduce the resistance to anti-angiogenic treatments.

• to further invest in the more recent initiative of studying the neuro-vascular link: by identifying the molecular mechanisms of, and in particular defining the role of the VEGF family and other angiogenic genes, in the neuro-vascular link in development and neurodegeneration; by developing additional VEGF-based therapeutic strategies preclinically and evaluating the therapeutic potential of VEGF for ALS clinically.

To achieve these goals competetively, we integrate complementary interdisciplinary approaches and state-of-the-art technologies (bridging genetics via functional genomics to translational medicine) and continue to build on our collaborative local and (inter)national scientific networks.

Education

The VRC is committed to provide professional training to pre- and post-doctoral students in order to prepare them optimally for a future research career in academia or industry. This training involves lab seminars, departmental seminars, grant writing, reviewing, supervision of junior scientists or technicians, research planning and lab micromanagement, and other initiatives.

Valorization

The VRC intends to valorize its basic research findings by filing patent applications, and developing novel therapeutic strategies or drugs though interactive strategic alliances with biotech industry; see Valorization.