Analysis of DNA repair mechanisms
Within this line of research, the 'Radiobiology Research Group' investigates defects in DNA repair mechanisms that underlie radiation sensitivity in cancer patients (e.g. breast cancer) and patients with a congenital immunity error or DNA repair disorder (SCID, CID, Ataxia telangiectasia, Fanconi anaemia, ..).
Research projects
Relationship between radiosensitivity, DNA repair and breast cancer predisposition
Within this project, we research the involvement of breast cancer-predisposing genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, ATM, ..) in radiosensitivity.
Analysis of radiosensitivity in patients with rare disorders
Within this project, we analyze, among other things, the radiation sensitivity in patients with inborn errors of the immune system or DNA repair disorders.
Analysis of radiosensitivity in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy
We are analysing the radiosensitivity in patients with different cancers: breast, ovarium, head and neck, brain, cervical, ...
Development and optimization of functional assays to assess DNA double-strand break repair capacity
Within this project, we investigate both homologous recombination and non-homologous end-joining in DNA.
Funding
- Special Research Fund (BOF)
- Research Foundation (FWO) for Applied Biomedical Research with a Primary Social finality (TBM)
- Kinderkankerfonds
Collaborations
- National Reference Centre (NRC) for diagnostic radiosensitivity testing (approved by Sciensano) since 2019
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG): Prof. Kathleen Claes
- CPIG (Primary Immune Disorders Center): Prof. Filomeen Haerynck, Dr. Victoria Bordon
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, Ghent University: Prof. Carolien Bonroy
- University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South-Africa