The centre of excellence TRANSGEN consortium brings together a group of ambitious researchers of the UZA-UAntwerp Center of Medical Genetics (CMG) and the VIB-UAntwerp Center for Molecular Neurology (CMN) to advance the translation of genomic and epigenomic insights into novel biomarkers and innovative therapies for three major groups of genetic disorders. Both centers have a vast expertise in elucidating the underlying genetic basis and pathomechanisms of (rare) heritable disorders, including cardiovascular diseases, central & peripheral nervous system disorders and cancer.

TRANSGEN will focus on three fundamental objectives: (1) transfer our (epi)genetic knowledge into the identification of biomarkers for (a) early detection and differential diagnosis of disease and (b) follow-up of disease progression; (2) identification of novel drug targets based on CRISPR screens and multi-omics approaches; and (3) proof-of-concept for preclinical therapies (identification of active compounds/repurposed drugs & study of nanoparticle drug delivery approaches).

Promotors TRANSGEN

Prof. Dr. Bart Loeys (FGGW, MEDGEN - CMG)

Prof. Dr. Rosa Rademakers (FBD, Applied and Translational Neurogenomics - VIB-CMN)

Prof. Dr. Guy Van Camp (FBD, MEDGEN - CMG)

Prof. Dr. Kristel Sleegers (FBD, Genetics of Alzheimer's disease - VIB-CMN)

Prof. Dr. Albena Jordanova (FBD, Molecular Neurogenomics - VIB-CMN)

Prof. Dr. Aline Verstraeten (FGGW, MEDGEN - CMG)

Prof. Dr. Sarah Weckhuysen (FBD, Applied and Translational Neurogenomics - VIB-CMN)