Reflections on the Benelux Metabolomic Days in Leiden
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Benelux Metabolomic Days, organized by the BeNeLux Metabolomic Center in Leiden under the leadership of Professor Thomas Hankemeier. The event took place in the impressive new Gorlaeus building at Leiden University—a modern and inspiring venue for scientific exchange.
The symposium featured a series of engaging talks highlighting cutting-edge developments in metabolomics. Professor Bart Ghesquiere presented fascinating insights into how shear stress from blood flow influences endothelial cell metabolism in blood vessels. Paul Vulto showcased an innovative approach to bridging technology and biology by growing cells on a chip, effectively mimicking organ function. This technique holds great promise for improving biological models and advancing drug targeting.
I also learned some striking facts: certain PFAS compounds can persist in the human body with a half-life exceeding 10 years, and early lactose intolerance may be linked to a higher risk of developing immune-related diseases later in life.
The symposium was a great success, capped off by an impressive tour of the core metabolomics facility. It was wonderful to reconnect with fellow metabolomics colleagues, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s edition in Antwerp!
Eric Wever
