Femke van Wijk, Professor Tissue Immunology (Center for Translational Immunology, UMC Utrecht) has been awarded a prestigious Vici Grant from ZonMw to expand on her research lines on the role of naïve T-cells in prediction and monitoring of long-term clinical outcomes, for example in stem cell transplantation and chronic inflammatory diseases.

Naïve T-cells form the basis for virtually all adaptive immune responses. Naïve T-cells have long been regarded as quiescent, homogeneous cells, just waiting to be activated.. However, Femke and others have recently provided compelling evidence that there is significant heterogeneity regarding phenotype, anatomic localization, and function within the naïve T-cell compartment. Hence, prof. dr. Femke van Wijk and her research group will investigate the diversity, and functional capabilities of naïve T-cells, as well as their role in chronic inflammation, aging, and stem cell transplantation.

Long-term outcomes

By sensing the local environment and early imprinting, naïve T-cells may conceal a sophisticated system determining potency, fitness, and (dys)regulation of the T-cell compartment. Changes in the naïve T-cell compartment may consequently predict and affect long-term clinical outcomes in e.g. stem cell transplantation settings and chronic inflammatory diseases.

After previously having received a Veni grant (2010), a Vidi grant (2014) and now a Vici grant, Femke van Wijk has completed this prestigious academic trilogy of Dutch research funding (after dr. José Borghans, she is the second researcher with the Strategic Program Infection & Immunity to have achieved this). Femke elaborates on her objectives for the period to come: “With help of this grant, my objective is to provide definitive evidence of cellular heterogeneity in human naïve T-cells, create a new paradigm on how naïve T-cells are poised to respond, and elucidate how this is regulated and can be manipulated. Looking below the seemingly calm surface of naive T-cells may reveal aspects that can guide strategies for optimizing vaccination, immune recovery, healthy aging, and T-cell-based therapies – all of which depend on the potency of naïve T-cells.”

About the Vici grant

The Vici grant is a funding instrument from ZonMw, targeted at outstanding senior researchers who have successfully demonstrated the ability to develop their own innovative lines of research. The scientists are among the top-10 percent of their research field and have obtained their PhD within the last 15 years. In addition, they have proven that they can act as a coach for young researchers. Vici laureates can establish their own research group which must become structurally embedded in the research institution. The grant amounts to a maximum of 1.5 million euros.

For the NWO press release on the announcement of the 2020 Vici grants, click here.