KEY PROJECTS
2025
Evaluating the therapeutic potential of psilocybin in a preclinical model of Alzheimer’s disease
This study aims to provide preclinical proof of concept for the use psilocybin for the treatment of AD. We hypothesize that psilocybin will reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine release and increase the production of BDNF in the murine 3xTgAD model.
Administrative Promotor: Dimitri De Bundel
2024
Sodium channelopathies as a possible cause of Primary Focal Hyperhidrosis
Primary focal hyperhidrosis (PFH) is a prevalent, mostly hereditary disorder characterized by sweating in excess of what is needed to sustain normal body temperature. PFH can range in severity from mild dampness to severe dripping of certain body areas and can result in a considerable impairment of quality of life.
Administrative promotor: Frank Bosmans
2023
Achiral and chiral targeted brain metabolomics in volume-limited samples: quest for broad coverage, sensitivity and throughput using chemical derivatization and miniaturized liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.
To gain more information on all metabolites in the mouse brain
extracellular fluid and their role under physiological and pathophysiological conditions, sensitive, selective and highthroughput LC-MS/MS methods that enable the quantification of a broad range of neurochemicals are needed.
Administrative promotor: Ann Van Eeckhaut
2022
Investigating the role of astrocytes and noradrenaline as critical regulators of neuronal circuit excitability
Proper information processing in the mammalian brain requires tight regulation of neuronal excitability, which can be modified by so-called neuromodulators, such as noradrenaline.
Administrative promotor: Dimitri De Bundel
Levodopa-rich biomass of slime molds and puffballs and their melanins for treatment of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are the most common and severe neurodegenerative disorders. Levodopa (L-DOPA) taken along with a peripheral DOPA-decarboxylase inhibitor is commonly used as an effective anti-Parkinson’s agent.
Administrative promotor: Ann Van Eeckhaut
SRP-Onderzoekszwaartepunt: Translating the biology of cognitive function to improve diagnosis and treatment of brain disorders
Every day we use our cognitive functions to overcome problems and to learn and remember new information. Consequently, cognitive dysfunction and cognitive decline have a tremendous impact on quality of life. Unfortunately, the mechanisms underlying these cognitive problems often remain poorly understood. In this field of science, ageing and Alzheimer's disease immediately come to mind and indeed, in this project we will explore possible new strategies for the treatment of this progressive and disabling disease.
Smolders, Ilse (Administrative Promotor)De Bundel, Dimitri (Co-Promotor)Van Eeckhaut, Ann (Co-Promotor)Engelborghs, Sebastiaan (Co-Promotor)Massie, Ann (Co-Promotor)Nagels, Guy (Co-Promotor)Van Schependom, Jeroen (Co-Promotor)
