Alexandre Merchiers (DVM)

Equine sarcoid is the most prevalent neoplasia in horses and equids worldwide. These are fibroblastic skin tumors induced by the bovine papillomavirus and can have different clinical presentations. Although they do no metastasize they show local signs of malignancy and due to their potential for recidivism they can form a real therapeutical challenge. 
Our research focuses on finding new treatment options by exploring the virus host interactions and the immune-evasive character of the sarcoid. We are currently exploring ways to apply gene-modifying techniques such as CRISPR/Cas in order to eliminate viral oncogenes inside sarcoid cells.
Another research line focuses on the cellular micro-environment within the sarcoid. Here we aim to find new insights into the interaction between the host immune system and the tumor. We strive to find new, potential therapeutical markers within the equine sarcoid.  
 

I obtained a Master in Veterinary Medicine at Ghent University in 2019 and immediately followed with a 1 year rotating internship at the department of Surgery and Orthopedics for Large Animals at the same faculty. Following the internship I joined a first line practice where I mainly  focused on the general medicine of horses combined with basic care of small animals. Since 2022 I rejoined the department of Surgery and Orthopedics for an assistant position where I combine both research on the topic of equine sarcoid as well as clinical work within the same field.   
 

• Lab address: Faculty of Veterinary Medicine – Ghent University, Dept. of Large Animal Surgery, Anaesthesia and Orthopaedics, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke
• Alexandre Merchiers is interested to receive invitations for presentations or talks