M. van Straaten

Memory B cells dominate the early antibody-secreting cell response to SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination in naive individuals independently of their antibody affinity

A Structural Classification of the Variant Surface Glycoproteins of the African Trypanosome

The paper uses experimental and computational methods to classify VSG proteins in African trypanosomes, revealing structural and conformational diversity that contributes to immune evasion.

Structural and Immunological Similarities Between the Metacyclic and Bloodstream Form Variant Surface Glycoproteins of the African Trypanosome

This study shows metacyclic and bloodstream form VSGs of African trypanosomes are structurally and immunologically similar.

An Epitope-Focused Trypanosome-Derived Vaccine Platform Elicits High-Affinity Antibodies and Immunity Against Fentanyl Effects

This paper develops a trypanosome-derived vaccine platform (VAST) that elicits high-affinity antibodies against fentanyl, demonstrating protective immunity through single-cell RNAseq and crystallography.

Nanobody Mediated Macromolecular Crowding Induces Membrane Fission and Remodeling in the African Trypanosome

The paper shows that nanobodies induce membrane fission and remodeling in African trypanosomes by causing macromolecular crowding, leading to loss of motility and nanovesicle shedding.

A Parasite Coat Protein Binds Suramin to Confer Drug Resistance

This study identifies that the trypanosome VSGsur protein binds suramin, conferring drug resistance, and shows this interaction is critical for resistance.