Expertise

My PhD research project focused on CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in the mouse/human germline and human pluripotent disease stem cell models targeting genes related to infertility. Currently, I am working as a post-doctoral researcher in the Peripheral Neuropathy Research Group in UAntwerp led by Prof. Vincent Timmerman. My main focus is to investigate Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) in different 3D human stem cell models.

Technique

Laboratory skills: - mouse and human embryology - micromanipulation - mouse handling - sperm cells, oocytes, embryos and stem cells freezing/vitrification and thawing - stem cell (embryonic stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells ...) techniques: derivation, culture, analysis ... - germ line and stem cell editing - single cell analysis of embryos - genetic analysis of gene editing events (i.e. NGS, STR, SNP, qPCR ...) - iPSC-derived model creation and analysis: motor neuron (2D and 3D), muscle (3D) and neuromuscular 3D models

Users

Researcher interested in 2D/3D neuromuscular stem cell models, gene editing and germ line experiments.

Keywords

3d stem cell model, Cmt

The Peripheral Neuropathy Group has expertise in mapping and identifying genes, and in studying the effect of mutations on the normal functioning of genes via neuronal and non-neuronal cell lines. This information is compared to clinical, neurophysiological and neuropathological data which are essential for genotype/phenotype correlations. The construction of transgenic models is complementary to the clinical and cellular research, and enables to unravel the pathomechanisms for sensory and/or motor neuropathies. We have further expertise in identifying genes through differential suppressive subtraction hybridisation in primary motor and sensory neurons, construction of cDNA libraries, identification of genomic and protein structures, and gene expression in neuronal and non-neuronal cells, including Schwann cells. We make use of transient and stable transformations, but also of the Crispr/Cas9 genome editing technology. In recent years we gained knowledge with microscopy technologies and the phenotyping of mouse and Drosophila models for peripheral neuropathies.

Technique

Technologies used in molecular genetics and cell biology.

Users

Physicians and neuromuscular centers (national and international), that have access to families and patients with disorders of the peripheral nervous system.

Keywords

Molecular genetics, Human genetics, Nervous systems, Biotechnology, Cell biology, Neuroscience

My research expertise focuses on inherited peripheral neuropathies, particularly Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, and the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying nerve degeneration and impaired myelination. Key research areas include Schwann cell biology, myelination, lipid metabolism, neuroregeneration, and macrophage-Schwann cell interactions. I use patient-derived cellular and iPSC models, animal models, 3D peripheral nerve organoids, and multi-omics approaches to investigate disease mechanisms and identify therapeutic targets. My expertise also encompasses stem cell therapy, tissue engineering, biomaterials, and nerve guidance technologies for peripheral nerve repair. My current research focuses on developing humanized disease models for CMT and other demyelinating neuropathies, with the aim of identifying and preclinically evaluating novel therapeutic strategies.

Technique

My methodological expertise encompasses in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo research in peripheral neuropathies, neuroregeneration, and stem cell research. I have extensive experience in cell culture, patient-derived cellular models, iPSC disease modelling in 2D and 3D, and differentiation of stem cells into Schwann-like cells and neurons, including models to study myelination, neurite outgrowth, and cell–matrix interactions. My expertise includes molecular techniques for protein and RNA analysis, advanced fluorescence imaging, electron microscopy, histology, and morphological analysis. I am experienced in animal work, including mouse and rat models of spinal cord and peripheral nerve injury and CMT, as well as functional and nerve conduction assessments. In addition, I have expertise in biomaterials, tissue engineering, nerve guidance conduits, 3D hydrogels, bioelectrical materials, therapeutic testing, and preclinical evaluation of therapeutic interventions in human and animal disease models.

Users

Researchers in academia and life science companies that are working in the field of neuroscience, in particularly peripheral neuropathies.

Keywords

Molecular techniques, Induced pluripotent stem cells, Microscopy, Neuroscience, Peripheral nerves, Neuromuscular diseases