Mitochondrial DNA methylation (mtDNAm) changes have been identified and linked to aging, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. However, methods of mtDNA isolation, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis are still technically challenging. Thus, our workshop will combine interdisciplinary experts to explore the biological importance of mtDNAm analysis and to provide insights into different methodological detection techniques.
Remarkably, Dr. Camila Bruna de Lima will come from ULaval (Canada) to share her pioneering knowledge on working with low-input mtDNA samples. Researchers interested in mitochondrial functions and the importance of mtDNAm epigenetic changes will be invited to join our workshop.
Registration
- The two workshop days are free of charge, but registration is mandatory.
- Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis, with a maximum of 40 participants on Day 1 (May 26th) and a maximum of 10 participants on Day 2 (May 27th, only for Ph.D. and Postdoctoral researchers).
- Registration will be available online from March 26th to April 26th, 2026.
Preliminary scientific programme
Day 1
WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION
- 9:00 – 9:10: Welcome and opening
- 9:10 – 9:30: Maternal metabolic research line: current focus and prospects
SESSION 1: WHY ANALYZING MITOCHONDRIAL DNA METHYLATION?
- 9:30 – 10:00: Application of mtDNAm analysis in the reproductive field of livestock animals
- 9:50 – 10:20: Application of mtDNAm analysis in metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease (MASLD)
- 10:20 – 10:40: Coffee break
- 10:40 – 11:10: Involvement of mitochondrial analysis in the identification of biomarkers and molecular therapeutic targets in cancer
- 11:10 – 11:40: mtDNAm bioinformatics: what to consider when analyzing the data, similarities and differences to nuclear DNA methylation
- 11:40 – 12:30: Round table open discussion: research challenges across fields, technical limitations, and opportunities for collaboration
- 12:30 – 13:30: Lunch break
SESSION 2: MITOCHONDRIAL DNA METHYLATION PROFILE AND FUNCTIONS: HOW TO ANALYZE?
- 13:30 – 14:00: mtDNAm profile using enzymatic conversion and a DNA sequencing system
- 14:00 – 14:30: mtDNA profile using nanopore episequencing using unconverted DNA samples
- 14:30 – 15:00: Coffee break
- 15:00 – 15:30: Targeted modulation of mitochondria activity using validated plasmids
- 15:30 – 16:00: How to plan and perform mtDNAm sequencing analysis at the Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) facility?
- 16:00 – 17:00: Open discussion: how to choose the best tool, questions, applications, brainstorming, and opportunities for collaboration
- 17:00 – 18:30: Networking Reception
Day 2
HANDS-ON TRAINING (for PhDs and Postdocs)
- 9:00 – 9:15: Reception of the PhD and Postdoctoral researchers
- 9:15 – 10:45: Mitochondrial isolation and DNA extraction
- 10:45 – 11:00: Coffee break
- 11:00 – 12:00: mtDNA enzymatic conversion (advantages and disadvantages)
Practical information
- Date: Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 May 2026
- Venue: University of Antwerp, Campus Drie Eiken
- Building & Room: Building Q - Room Q.003
- Address: Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerp
- Car Park: 2
How to book a hotel
(please follow the steps in the right order)
- Go to the online booking tool
- First enter the code UAACB19 (in capital) and click Search
- Enter your arrival and departure dates, then click Search again
- You’ll see an overview of all available hotels and their Best Available Rate minus 10%, at that moment, along with the applicable conditions
- Select a hotel and book your room.
With thanks to the Antwerp Convention Bureau (ACB)
