Vib-ugent Center for Medical Biotechnology
At CMB, the focus lies on the development of new and innovative molecular tools and technologies to address human health problems. An emerging and fascinating research theme is the development and production of new biopharmaceuticals and vaccines. CMB researchers are working on new applications in tuberculosis research, cancer treatment and antiviral immunity, among others. Research at CMB pushes the boundaries of biomolecular/bioinformatics research and engineering. We also translate our new technologies and insights into widely applicable research tools, vaccines, diagnostics and pharmaceuticals.
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Callewaert Lab
Engineering next‑gen molecules to fine‑tune the immune response.
Martens Lab
Crafting RNA‑based treatments with precision delivery systems.
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The labs of Professors Francis Impens and Lennart Martens at the VIB-UGent VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology have joined a new EU project, COMBINE, researching the Marburg virus (MARV). The project sets out to advance our understanding of how viruses enter cells, using MARV as a model, and to ...
Our Most Recent Publications
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- 22-03-2025
Fight to Survive: Marchantia Synthesizes Newly Identified Metabolites in Response to Wounding.
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- 15-03-2017
A Crispr-cas-based Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Assay for Ultra-sensitive Detection of Active Trypanosoma Brucei Evansi Infections.
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- 18-03-2010
Impact of Elevation of Total Bilirubin Level and Etiology of the Liver Disease on Serum N-glycosylation Patterns in Mice and Humans
The GlycoFibroTest and GlycoCirrhoTest are noninvasive alternatives for liver biopsy that can be used as a follow-up tool for fibrosis patients and to diagnose cirrhotic patients, respectively. These tests are based on the altered N-glycosylation of total serum protein. Our aim was to investigate the impact of etiology on the alteration of N-glycosylation and whether other characteristics of liver patients could have an influence on N-glycosylation. In human liver patients, no specific alteration could be found to make a distinction according to etiological factor, although alcoholic patients had a significant higher mean value for the GlycoCirrhoTest. Undergalactosylation did (...)
Come and Join Us!
Bioinformatician Postdoctoral Level
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Research Groups Our Center Is Involved with
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Bioinformatics & Computational Biology
Mine large‑scale data for insights that drive breakthroughs in biotechnology.
Our Research Projects
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Algae‑based Biofuel and Bioproduct Synthesis
Harnessing microalgae to produce sustainable fuels and biochemicals.
This research optimizes algal strain selection and photobioreactor conditions to maximize lipid yields and valuable co‑metabolites. Process engineering focuses on cost‑effective scale‑up, while green extraction techniques recover biofuels and bioplastics. The project addresses both energy security and circular‑economy goals.
Patient‑derived Organoid Platforms for Personalized Medicine
Using organoid cultures to predict individualized drug responses.
By growing mini‑organs from patient biopsy samples, we create high‑throughput drug screens tailored to each individual’s tumor or genetic disease. Integrated genomic and pharmacodynamic analyses will pinpoint optimal therapies. This approach seeks to streamline personalized treatment decisions in clinical settings.
Center Spin-offs
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Aelin Therapeutics
Pept-in™ harnesses controlled protein aggregation to induce the selective knockdown of disease-causing proteins, offering a unique modality for targets considered “undruggable.”
Aelin’s lead programs target neurodegenerative and oncogenic proteins, with preclinical data showing potent, selective degradation and favorable safety profiles.
Supported by VIB’s technology transfer, the company has secured Series A funding to advance its most promising candidates toward clinical development.
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Actobio Therapeutics
The ActoBiotics™ platform employs genetically modified Lactococcus lactis to secrete antigens and immunomodulatory molecules directly at mucosal surfaces, promoting antigen-specific tolerance or immunity without systemic exposure.
In 2019, ActoBio launched its first human trial (AG019) for early‐onset type 1 diabetes, demonstrating safety and β-cell protective effects in preclinical models.
Backed by strong VIB and academic support, the company is exploring applications in autoimmunity, oncology, and allergy. - active
Ablynx
Ablynx leverages camelid-derived single-domain antibodies (“nanobodies”) that combine high target specificity with superior tissue penetration, stability, and ease of production compared to conventional antibodies.
Since its inception, the company has advanced a robust pipeline across immunology and neuroscience, with multiple candidates in clinical trials and strategic collaborations with global pharmaceutical partners.
In 2018, Ablynx’s platform value was underscored by Sanofi’s $4.8 billion acquisition, enabling further expansion of its nanobody franchise.
