Inaugural lecture Prof. Dr. John Penders
Appointed professor of "Metagenomic Epidemiology and Intestinal Microbiology" in the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences
"Grenzeloze samenwerking: Het nut van een wereld vol beestjes"
Our intestines are inhabited by billions of bacteria, viruses, fungi, yeasts, and other microorganisms. These 'invisible creatures' play a crucial role in our digestion, immune system, and even in the effectiveness of medications. Disruptions in this so-called gut microbiome, partly caused by our Western lifestyle, can lead to an increased risk of diseases ranging from allergies to chronic intestinal disorders.
In my inaugural speech, I will take you into the fascinating world of microorganisms. With the help of modern techniques such as metagenomic sequencing, my team investigates how changes in the gut microbiome contribute to diseases and how we can harness the natural power of microbes to promote health and prevent disease. I will show how collaboration between disciplines – from epidemiology and bioinformatics to microbiology – is essential to translating these insights into practical applications, such as personalized treatments and sustainable use of antibiotics.
Click here for the live stream.
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