You buy strawberries in the supermarket, but when you want to bite into one of those juicy strawberries at home, you stumble upon a moldy one in the package. Yuck. But did you know that the solution to this problem may be right under our feet? Bioengineer Jasmine De Rop (UGent) explains how soil bacteria might offer an unexpected way to tackle this issue.

Everyone knows breast cancer and lung cancer, but have you ever heard of sarcoma? This rare cancer can occur throughout the body and affects 1% of cancer patients. Because sarcoma is so rare, large studies with patients are difficult. That's why Stefanie Gijsels is developing innovative models to mimic tumors in the lab and test new treatments.

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.

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.

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!

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...