Research group Innovative Testing in Life Sciences & Chemistry
The Research group Innovative Testing in Life Sciences & Chemistry develops and applies methods to determine the effects of substances present in our environment, food and medicines, without the use of animal testing.
Lines of research within the research group
In our research we develop methods that can measure both the positive or harmful side effects of substances in food, medicines or the environment. Our in vitro methods pertain to cell lines as well as organoids made from stem cells. With these methods we are, for example, able to focus on antimicrobial reactions that are stimulated by natural substances present in food. We also developed a method for detecting the effects on human (intestinal) health, by measuring various exertion levels performed on a bicycle ergometer.
Projects
- RAAK-PRO 2REAL GUTS
- RAAK-PRO DiAgRaMs
- VitalTissue
Our research into antimicrobial resistance is closely intertwined with the research performed within the ‘Nutrition and health’ research line. Together with partners from professional practice, we are investigating to which extent certain natural components help to improve the intestinal immune system. We are also studying the direct antimicrobial effect of certain natural substances, inter alia, by visualizing the clustering of bacteria, in stem cell derived cultures from pork and chicken intestines.
Projects
- RAAK-PRO 2REAL GUTS
Our research into the safety of substances and vaccines focuses on the development of non-animal testing methods to determine toxic effects. Such as effects on growth, movement and development of the C. elegans nematode, as an example of potential toxic effects on development and reproduction.
Projects
- IMI-Vac2Vac
- EFRO TOX-FLOW
- NC3R DARTpathfinder
Virtual Human Platform 4 Safety Assessment
Imagine a world in which we perform precision safety testing of chemicals and pharmaceuticals without using laboratory animals. Imagine that this safety can be assessed for vulnerable groups.
ONTOX: predicting toxicity with artificial intelligence
ONTOX aims to deliver a generic strategy for using artificial intelligence (AI) that can be applied to predict toxicity in humans of any chemical at any dose. With the use of big data, novel predictive algorithms will be used to effectively indicate whether a compound of interest provides a risk for human health.
The value of vital tissue
In this project we will inform and involve the general public about biomedical research: in particular the (in)possibilities of the use of human tissue.
Publications
- Natural language processing in toxicology: Delineating adverse outcome pathways and guiding the application of new approach methodologies
- Kinetics of Physiological Responses as a Measure of Intensity and Hydration Status During Experimental Physical Stress in Human Volunteers
- Plasma citrulline concentration, a marker for intestinal functionality, reflects exercise intensity in healthy young men
Education
The research group makes valuable contributions to education in the field of life sciences and chemistry. Our training of future technicians emphasises obtaining multidisciplinary research skills. The research lines conducted by the research group are directly affiliated with the Life Sciences and Chemistry degree programmes at the HU.
“Research and education are both driven by curiosity and are not treated as separate processes, especially in relation to laboratory (biomedical) research.”
Cyrille Krul Professor of Innovative Testing in Life Sciences & Chemistry
Collaboration
The research group formed the basis of the Innovation Lab (iLab) Life Sciences & Chemistry in Utrecht, which provides the space for collaboration with professionals who are active in professional practice. We also work closely with other research institutes, as well as with partners from the (international) business community.
Our professors and researchers
Would you like to collaborate or do you have any questions?
