Understanding ageing to grow old ... and healthy

What happens to your body in space?
When gravity disappears, the body changes in ways we’re only starting to understand — and the liver is no exception. Postdoctoral researcher Sinem Helvacıoğlu Akyüz (VUB) is studying how microgravity affects liver cells, especially the proteins responsible for moving drugs through the body. Her research could lead to better protections for astronauts — and new insights into treating disease on Earth.

Why do so many promising drugs fail in clinical trials? Often because they’re tested on flat cell cultures that don’t reflect real human biology. That's why Anubhav Bussooa (VUB) is developing 3D cell models that mimic how real tissues work — including root-like structures that deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells at the center of these spheres. These models could lead to better, faster, and more accurate drug testing.

With resistant bacteria on the rise, traditional antibiotics are losing their power. Richa Scharma, (VUB), is taking a new direction. Instead of killing bacteria outright, she’s designing molecules that block their ability to cause disease.
This strategy could lead to next-generation antibiotics that are harder for bacteria to resist — helping us stay ahead in the fight against superbugs.
🎥 Watch the video to discover how Richa’s research is reshaping the fight against antibiotic resistance.