Research & Impact

We study the structure and dynamics of macromolecular complexes in health and disease to explain their mode of action. We integrate our structural biology work with genetic and cellular studies, aiming to bridge molecular and cellular resolution. We excel in translating our discoveries into biotechnological and medical applications.

We envision a structural biology that is increasingly closer to the cellular context, working on in situ or ex vivo samples, with minimal manipulation and as close as possible to the physiological processes under study. We aspire a further integration of time as an integral dimension of the structural biology principles we study. We envision a structural biology that transcends the explanatory power of the technique, into an exploratory instrument that leads to the discovery of novel biological pathways.

Our integrated center supports the major methodologies for structural biology (biophysics, NMR, XRD, cryoEM and cryoET) complemented with the Nanobody technology and μ-fluidics platforms that we develop. Our interdisciplinary and integrative approach gives us enormous leverage to produce excellent educational opportunities, carry out grand challenge science, and stimulate research-based economic development.

We answer key questions on biological systems, primarily located in the area of protein signaling cascades and host-pathogen interaction. Atomic level structural and biophysical insights are challenged and validated in their biological context through prediction and in vivo and in vitro experimentation, generating integrated models of the mode of action and regulation of the molecular processes and pathways involved.

We have a remarkable track record in turning excellent fundamental research  into value for society. The prime example is the development of our Nanobody® technology, which gave rise to established spin-off companies.  The center’s expertise in nanopore technology has also led to collaborations with leading nanopore
sequencing providers. All this was achieved by promoting a healthy mix of scientific excellence and entrepreneurship, complemented by the strengths of VIB’s valorization team.

Our center provides Belgian and European scientists access to cryo-EM. Nanobodies4INSTRUCT ensures worldwide access to nanobody-enabled structural biology.