News

Discovery of new genetic defect explains rare disease

8 May 2019

Researchers at the Centre for Human Genetics and Sussex University have identified a genetic defect on the POLA1 gene which lies at the root of a rare syndrome. The disorder, which only affects males, is associated with growth disorders, smaller brains and learning disabilities.

Cancer risk smaller than expected in very elderly care home residents

25 April 2019

A recent study by the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer found that very elderly care home residents are receiving cancer diagnoses twenty times less than expected. These findings tie in with an existing theory that ageing of the body cells creates a natural protection mechanism for disease

Genome Analytics Platform (GAP) for complete genome sequencing

24 April 2019

UZ Leuven, KU Leuven, Imec, UGent, Agilent, Western Digital and BlueBee are developing a unique solution to convert genome data quickly and cost effectively into useful information for doctors. The Genome Analytics Platform should facilitate genome sequencing in day to day hospital practice.

Impressive public transport development between Gasthuisberg, the Arenberg Science Park, Imec and Leuven station

24 April 2019

Flemish Minister for Mobility Ben Weyts, AWV, De Lijn, UZ Leuven, KU Leuven and the Imec research centre are joining forces to provide the two leading employment hubs, Gasthuisberg and the Arenberg/Imec Science Park, with high frequency bus connections to the station.

Less sedentary lifestyle during pregnancy results in lower fat percentage in the babies of obese mothers

14 March 2019

The European DALI trial has shown that when obese women adopt a less sedentary lifestyle during pregnancy, their babies have a lower fat percentage at birth. This demonstrates for the first time that there is a connection between lifestyle during the pregnancy and the baby's fat percentage.

Computer algorithms to diagnose juvenile arthritis

12 March 2019

A team of scientists at VIB and KU Leuven developed a machine learning algorithm that can diagnose arthritis in children with almost 90% accuracy, purely on the basis of a blood test. The new findings open the door to the use of machine learning for faster diagnosis and personalised treatment.

Surgery not always necessary for benign ovarian tumours

6 February 2019

Not all ovarian tumours require surgery. In many cases monitoring of benign tumours may be a safe option without the need for surgery. This will also prevent complications following an operation and keep the cost down for healthcare providers.

No increased likelihood of pregnancy with 'endometrial scratch'

1 February 2019

A recent study has demonstrated that so-called 'endometrial scratch' treatment does not increase the likelihood of pregnancy in IVF patients. Prof. Peeraer, co-author of the study: "The study clearly shows that we should no longer propose 'endometrial scratch' treatment to our patients as a matter of course."

Identical twin reveals new genetic cause of arthritis

24 January 2019

University Hospitals Leuven, VIB and KU Leuven has revealed a genetic defect that can cause a very early form of chronic inflammation of the joints. The research results can be a help in developing appropriate treatment for arthritis in children.