Which sex-specific processes play a role in the development and rupture of brain aneurysms? This question is central to the research of Ynte Ruigrok, professor of ‘Genetics of Cerebrovascular Diseases’ at UMC Utrecht. She is receiving a prestigious Vici grant from ZonMw for this work. With this grant of 1.5 million euros, she can establish an innovative research line over the next five years and further expand her research group.
The Vici grant is intended for advanced, adventurous and groundbreaking researchers. The instrument offers scientists the freedom to conduct research of their own choosing and thereby gives innovative scientific research in the Netherlands a strong boost. This year, 39 researchers are receiving a Vici grant.
Ynte Ruigrok: “A brain aneurysm is a weakened spot in a cerebral artery. When an aneurysm ruptures, it causes a life-threatening hemorrhage in the brain. Despite the major impact on patients and their loved ones, the mechanisms behind the development and rupture of aneurysms are still insufficiently understood. Suitable models to properly study these processes are also lacking. In the Netherlands, three percent of all adults – around 300,000 people – have a brain aneurysm.”
It is striking that brain aneurysms occur more often in women. This suggests that sex-specific processes may play an important role. A promising indication is that overactivation of the immune system in endothelial cells – the cells lining the inside of blood vessels – may be crucial in the development and destabilization of aneurysms.
“If we can see in the blood who is at risk, we can intervene earlier and treat more effectively.”
In the Vici project, Ynte Ruigrok investigates this mechanism using genetic research, advanced imaging and patient-derived cells. In addition, it will be tested whether existing or new medicines influence these processes.
“A key part of the research is the question of whether the underlying mechanism can be measured in the blood. If this proves possible, it could lead to a method to identify high-risk individuals earlier and treat them more effectively. In this way, the project can contribute to better prevention and treatment of this serious condition.”
The Vici grant, together with the Veni and Vidi grants, is part of the NWO Talent Program. The grant is intended for very experienced researchers who have successfully developed an innovative research line. These scientists belong to the top of their research field. In addition, they have demonstrated the ability to act as mentors for young researchers. In total, 39 top researchers have received a Vici grant of up to 1.5 million euros each. This enables them to further expand their research groups over the next five years.
