Projects
Exploitation of toll-like receptors (TLR)
Anja Garritsen, research coordinator of the project: “We achieved a lot in 2008. We were able to submit 7 abstracts for oral and poster presentations and 4 publications. Additionally, our first patent application is being drafted.” In terms of continuation of research, cell lines were generated, proteins for crystallography expressed, probiotics tested, the first small molecule screen was completed and new compounds were synthesized. Within the consortium interesting findings were reported on the role of TLRs in the cardiovascular system, rheumatoid arthritis, regulation of Tregs, and in cancer. The project kicked-off in January 2008, followed by recruitment of Ph.D. students and postdocs. Individual groups then started to collaborate actively, exchanging materials, and meeting on a regular basis. Anja concludes: “Our scientists actively participated in the TI Pharma Spring Meeting and the FIGON Dutch Medicines Days. A second consortium meeting was held in August 2008.”
Partners: ISA Pharmaceuticals, Leiden University, Leiden University Medical Center, Maastricht University, Danone Research, MSD, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, TNO, University Medical Center Utrecht, and Utrecht University
Full project title: Exploitation of toll-like receptors in drug discovery