Infectious diseases

Sanquin and AMC work together on blood transmittable diseases, and AMC has a strong track record in the identification of novel viruses. Another main focus of the AMC is its AIDS programme, and the design of novel antiretroviral therapies has been the basis for many productive scientific and industry collaborations. The AMC has also built a strong international reputation in the prevention of HIV infection.

VUmc and AMC are working together on the development of rapid high throughput microbiological and immunogenetic typing and diagnostic systems, to improve the prevention and treatment of bacterial and parasitic diseases. In addition, the VUmc has strong programmes devoted to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), and human papilloma virus (HPV). Some subtypes of HPV play a causative role in the development of cervical cancer, and the VUmc has recently developed a home test for these HPV subtypes.

Infection and immunity
Amsterdam has extensive expertise in sexually transmitted infectious diseases (AIDS) and in the development of means for preventing HIV infection and optimising the treatment of HIV. Its strong multidisciplinary approach in virology provides opportunities for the development of innovative vaccines and new methods in the fields of transplantation and immunology and bacterial infections.

Main therapy targets:

• New vaccines for HIV, hepatitis and other viral infections
• Immune response after transplantation
• Identification of new types of Corona virus and other infectious agents