VIB Department for Molecular Biomedical Research, UGent (DMBR)

Department director: Bart Lambrecht

The Department for Molecular Biomedical Research (DMBR) is active within VIB and Ghent University.  The aim of the DMBR is to contribute to combating major human diseases such as inflammatory and degenerative disorders and cancer, by performing basic research at an internationally recognized level.  In addition, the DMBR seeks to translate the acquired basic knowledge into prognostic, diagnostic and therapeutic biomedical applications.  Finally, the DMBR contributes to the high-quality training of the next generation of scientists in molecular biological and biomedical research.

The activities of the DMBR have been focused for many years on molecular biomedical research in the fields of cancer and inflammation-related diseases.  Numerous links exist between these two research fields, and the molecules and pathways involved also play a role during embryonic development, in tissue homeostasis, and degeneration processes.

The research topics of the 10 research units of the DMBR are quite diverse, but they have become progressively focused on three groups of biomedical conditions and phenomena.  This has resulted in the definition of three departmental research programs:

• tumor-host interactions
• inflammation and immunity
• tissue morphogenesis and disease

Within each program we seek "vertical" integration: in principle, an interesting molecule can be analyzed entirely within the DMBR, starting from the (cloned) molecule of interest, going on to cellular and animal model systems, and finally to clinical trials in close collaboration with medical or industrial partners.

We consider it an asset that this entire track "from gene to clinic" can be studied within the DMBR.
In addition, a Molecular Biomedical Technology program focuses on technology and product driven research and aims at bridging the gap between DMBR's basic research findings and expertise on the one hand, and industrial applications on the other.

"Horizontal" integration between the research programs is driven by the shared interest in several key molecules, the integration of technology platforms in centers of expertise and core facilities, and the common mission of academic teaching and training.

As a VIB department, the DMBR has to meet targets of three kinds: high-level scientific publications, technology transfer activities, and training of scientists.  In 2007, 40 publications by DMBR scientists were published in high-impact international journals.  Of these articles, 13 appeared in top journals.  VIB filed three patent applications by DMBR inventors, and 12 DMBR researchers obtained a Ph.D. degree in 2007.

ActoGenix, a spin-off company of DMBR, founded in 2006, is focusing on therapeutic use of engineered lactic acid bacteria.  Stock financing raised € 11.5 million euros.

Departmental support staff: click here for an overview