Biomolecular Chemistry

Characterisation and function of autoantigens 

Pruijn group 

Patients suffering from autoimmune diseases produce antibodies to self-proteins, which are referred to as autoantigens. In general, such autoantigens are macromolecules which have important cellular functions. We study the structure and function of autoantigens involved in the synthesis and degradation of RNA and proteins.

We also address the question of why tolerance to self-proteins is lost in autoimmunity. Our studies are based on the hypothesis that unusual post-translational modifications play a role in the generation of autoreactive antibodies, and we believe that such modifications play an significant role in the initiation of autoimmunity. The knowledge obtained on the structure and modifications of autoantigenic molecules is used for the development of autoimmune diagnostics.

Glycans in immune and microbiome interactions 

Büll group

The surfaces of human cells are adorned with glycans - structurally diverse assemblies of complex carbohydrates. Glycans carry biological information that instruct the human immune system and organize the microbiome that inhabits the human body. Altered glycosylation is a hallmark of nearly every major human disease, including inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer.

Our interdisciplinary team of biologists and chemists is focused on decoding the informational content of human glycans, especially glycans with sialic acids. Using advanced genetic and chemical glycoengineering, we investigate how glycans mediate key interactions with the immune system and the microbiome. Our aim is to harness these insights to develop glycan-based therapeutics that restore immunological self-tolerance and promote symbiotic relationships with the microbiome.

Publications

The scientific contributions of researchers of the department can be found in the Publications archive in Radboud Repository.