Gene-ius solutions: Epigenetic innovations in chronic pain relief
Millions worldwide suffer from chronic pain, where even simple tasks become unbearable. But why does this happen? The key lies in epigenetics, which can be seen as the "conductor" of our genetic orchestra. While our genes provide the notes, epigenetics directs when and how they play. It details how each part of our body should function, thus creating harmony in our bodies. In chronic pain, this conductor falters, leading to a chaotic mix of painful signals, as VUB researcher Huanyu Xiong explains.
Health
About us
Science Figured Out lures scientists out of their trusted lab or office space and places them in front of a camera with a clear task: inform the general public in a clear 3-minute pitch about your research!
The project is an initiative of the non-profit SciMingo
Do you want to record a Science Figured Out movie about your research?
Follow the video & pitch course via our SciComm Academy
Search videos
VUB
Cracking the code of kidney stones
As a child, Zhao Yuheng (VUB) often endured excruciating kidney stones, requiring frequent hospital visits. Now, she is a chemist dedicated to decoding these painful formations. Her goal is to help doctors diagnose kidney stones early and tailor treatments, sparing millions from unnecessary pain.
VUB
Ambiguity in financial markets: sailing through uncharted seas
Morten Wilke (VUB) was just 14 when his mother lost her job during the financial market crisis. Now, as a PhD student in economics, he explores how to better handle uncertainty in financial markets. Through vivid metaphors, Captain Wilke expertly navigates terms like 'risk' and 'ambiguity.' His research helps investors steer their ships through the uncharted seas of the financial market. Hoist the sails!
FWO
VUB
Cracking the cacao pollinator mystery
Sinterklaas is almost here, and for many in Belgium, it's a time for chocolate. 🍫 But have you noticed chocolate is getting more and more expensive? 💸 Eliza Van de Sande is looking to unravel the mystery behind the cacao pollinators, to make cocoa farming more efficient and cheaper...
VUB
Alpacas' antibodies to fight cancer
Did you know alpacas are more than just cute and fluffy? 🦙 They create special antibodies that can help us fight cancer! 🎗️ These tiny but mighty "nanobodies" are 10x smaller than regular antibodies, meaning they can easily reach hidden cancer cells in the body. But there's a catch: nanobodies tend to stick around the kidneys for too long, potentially causing damage. Researcher Dora Chigoho (VUB) tries to understand better why this happens. Her goal is to help develop nanobodies that track down cancer and don't stick in the kidneys at all.
FWO
VUB
Bioplastics: the stretch to sustainability
Plastics are everywhere: from the plastic packaging that keeps our food safe and fresh, to, unfortunately, the (micro)plastics that end up in our seas and oceans. "We can't avoid plastics, so we have to improve them," argues Hannelore Geeraert (VUB - FWO). Thus, with the help of bacteria, she worked on biodegradable bioplastics.
VUB
Growing the future: material innovation using fungi
Your next jacket might be made from fungi! Mycelium, the underground root network of mushrooms, offers eco-friendly alternatives like leather substitutes and fireproof insulation. However, as a natural grown product, its variability poses challenges for factories. That's why Jara Saluena is researching how to grow more consistent, durable mycelium materials.
Gold partners
