Pioneering the future of autoimmune research through synergy

The GlycanSwitch project is a synergy of four research groups with diverse expertise, including clinical research, glycomics and innovative mouse models.

About GlycanSwitch

The GlycanSwitch project strives to uncover the mysteries of autoimmune diseases, in specific Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). This ambitious research project is running from 2023 to 2028.

At its core is a unique synergy of four research groups with diverse expertise, including clinical research, glycomics and innovative mouse models.

GlycanSwitch aims to pave the path for transforming our understanding of diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ultimately leading to groundbreaking treatments and, potentially, prevention.

Meet the trailblazers of GlycanSwitch

GlycanSwitch is not just a project; it's a convergence of expertise from four distinguished scientists, each a leader in their field:

Tom Huizinga
Tom Huizinga - (LUMC, NL)

A visionary in clinical autoimmunity, Huizinga's work has been pivotal in understanding the clinical progression of RA.

Manfred Wuhrer
Manfred Wuhrer - (LUMC, NL)

Wuhrer's expertise in advanced glycoanalytical methodologies is the backbone of the project's innovative approach to studying glycosylation.

Salomé Pinho
Salomé Pinho - (i3S, PT)

Pinho brings a cutting-edge perspective on glyco-engineering of mouse models, crucial for developing novel immunotherapies.

Gordan Lauc
Gordan Lauc - (Genos, HR)

Lauc's work in large-scale glyco-genomics provides invaluable insights into predictive markers of autoimmune development.

Synergy - The driving force of GlycanSwitch

The power of GlycanSwitch lies in the synergy of these experts working together. By integrating their diverse skills and knowledge, the project aims to:

Map Autoantibody Glyco-signatures:

Uncover how changes in glycosylation of autoantibodies contribute to the onset and progression of autoimmune diseases.

Develop Unconventional Immunotherapies:

Explore new treatment avenues for RA, potentially altering the disease's natural course.

Extend Insights to Other Diseases:

Apply findings not only to RA but also to other autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus and type 1 diabetes.

The journey from 2023 to 2028

The power of GlycanSwitch lies in the synergy of these experts working together. By integrating their diverse skills and knowledge, the project aims to:

2023 - 2024

Establishing foundational research and initial mapping of autoantibody glyco-signatures.

2025 - 2026

Advancing the understanding of B cell glycosylation and its role in autoimmune responses.

2027 - 2028

Translating research findings into clinical applications, including novel diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.

Why this matters to you

Autoimmune diseases affect millions globally, and yet, they remain some of the most challenging conditions to predict, prevent, and treat effectively.

GlycanSwitch's collaborative approach and its focus on glycosylation could lead to breakthroughs that impact how these diseases are managed, offering hope for a future where they can be controlled or even prevented.

A future shaped by collaboration and innovation

As GlycanSwitch progresses, it stands as a testament to the power of collaborative research in solving complex health challenges.

By 2028, we anticipate a landscape where the insights from this project will have begun to reshape our approach to autoimmune diseases, offering new hope and possibilities to those affected.