Cancer and Gut Researchers Win Prestigious 'Belgian Nobel Prize': 'Recognition for 20 Years of Research'

Researchers Diether Lambrechts and Patrice Cani have been awarded this year's Francqui-Collen Prize, Belgium's most significant scientific award, often likened to the 'Belgian Nobel Prize.' The prize recognizes groundbreaking research in biological and medical sciences, with Lambrechts honored for his work in cancer research and Cani for his studies on gut bacteria.

“

This is a recognition for the past 20 years, not just for the research I am doing today or last week. Research is a process that goes slowly.

Diether Lambrechts, from KU Leuven and the VIB Center for Cancer Biology, developed innovative technologies to map tumors at a cellular level. This single-cell technology allows for a more precise understanding of how tumors respond to specific treatments. He also created genetic tests, known as biomarkers, for colorectal and ovarian cancers.

These biomarkers are crucial for identifying which patients will benefit from treatments like immunotherapy. Lambrechts explained that for colorectal cancer, his biomarker helps predict response to immunotherapy, offering a survival advantage to a select group of patients. For ovarian cancer, his team developed a biomarker that is now reimbursed in Belgium, offering a more affordable alternative to existing options and avoiding unnecessary side effects for patients who would not benefit.

“

That is a unique opportunity. We can take our future research a step further.

Patrice Cani, from UC Louvain, received the award for his research into the bacteria residing in our gut and their impact on various bodily functions, including brain activity. The Francqui-Collen Prize not only brings prestige but also a substantial financial award of 250,000 euros. A significant portion, 200,000 euros, is mandated for reinvestment into future research, providing a vital boost for continued scientific exploration.

“

The biomarker for colorectal cancer tells which patient will respond to immunotherapy. Only a small group of patients has a very clear survival advantage from that therapy. So it is very important to be able to predict that.