We determine the structures of biological macromolecules using crystallography and NMR.
We study the biophysical and biochemical properties of individual macromolecules and their complexes.
We develop new biotechnological and medical applications.
We train the next generation of scientists.
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The lab is fully equipped for high-throughput crystallization of proteins and their complexes using the Formulatrix Formulator, Crystal Phoenix and Tecan Freedom EVO robotics systems. An in-house Rigaku MicroMax-007 HF X-ray generator, with an Oxford CryoStream system and a Saturn 944+ detector, is available for screening and optimisation of crystals. The generator is also equiipped with a Rigaku BioSAXS 2000 setup for scattering measurements on proteins and protein complexes in solution. For more demanding data collection projects, we have access to a number of world-class synchrotron sources, including ESRF, Soleil, DESY/PETRA and Diamond. |
The Jean Jeener NMR Centre is equipped with two state-of-the-art Varian spectrometers with proton resonance frequencies of 600 and 800MHz respectively. The former has a number of different probes for applications in organic chemistry and biochemistry, while the latter is equipped with a four-channel cryoprobe with enhanced sensitivity and salt-tolerance. These instruments support a wide range of NMR experiments on biological macromolecules, ranging from interaction studies to complete structure determination projects. The expertise center can provide support for all steps ranging from the production of isotopically labelled protein samples to data analysis. |
Spectroscopy and CalorimetryIn addition to standard UV absorption spectroscopy (Cary), we have a Jasco J-715 circular dichroism polarimeter and a Perkin-Elmer LS55 fluorimeters. Our Microcal VP-ITC and ITC-200 instruments are used for isothermal titration calorimetry, while the Microcal VP-DSC and TA Instruments NanoDSC are mainly used for stability studies of proteins and their complexes. |
Interaction StudiesThe spectoscopic and calorimetric methods for detecting and quantifying interactions between macromolecules and their ligands are complemented by other biophysical methods, including surface plasmon resonance (using a BiaCore 3000 instrument) and microscale thermophoresis (using a NanoTemper system). |
Microscopy and ImagingOur confocal fluorescence microscope is used for studies of cells and crystal growth processes. The transmission electron microscope is available for visualisation of biological macromolecules. |
With the support of the VIB, the SBRC has co-founded several startup companies, based on breakthrough research.
- AbLynx is focused on the discovery and development of Nanobodies®, a novel class of antibody-derived therapeutic proteins based on single-domain antibody fragments, for a range of serious human diseases including inflammation, haematology, oncology and pulmonary disease.
- Xaperones produces custom nanobodies that facilitate the crystallization of proteins of interest, and stabilize unique therapeutic conformations of these molecules.
- AgroSavfe employs its proprietary Agrobody™ technology platform to develop superior crop protection products, based on active ingredients with proven efficacy, in combination with Agrobodies™ as formulation agents.
Undergraduate CoursesThe department has a well-established tradition of teaching a wide range of courses on topics related to structural and molecular biology, as well as the theory and applications of bioinformatics. The following courses are taught in the context of the bio-engineering and chemistry curricula at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
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Ph.D ThesesIn 2013, the following Ph.D. theses were defended:
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