Vivienne Velic

My research focuses on testing a novel immunotherapy for feline squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), an aggressive and common cancer with very limited treatment options and poor survival. Current therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are often ineffective, especially in advanced disease, highlighting an urgent unmet clinical need.
This project investigates extracellular vimentin (eVim), a protein involved in tumour progression, invasion, and angiogenesis. Unlike many tumour targets, eVim is accessible in the tumour microenvironment, making it a promising and potentially safer therapeutic target. We hypothesize that targeting eVim through vaccination can stimulate the immune system to reduce tumour growth and metastasis.
The project combines basic, translational, and clinical research. First, we will characterize eVim expression and distribution in feline SCC. Second, we will evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of an anti-vimentin vaccine in healthy cats. Finally, we will assess its clinical applicability and preliminary efficacy in cats with naturally occurring cancer, including effects on tumour progression and quality of life.
This research is important not only for veterinary medicine, where treatment options are limited, but also for human oncology. Feline SCC closely resembles human head and neck cancer, making it a valuable comparative oncology model. By integrating molecular biology, immunology, and clinical research, this project contributes to the development of innovative immunotherapies with potential benefits for both animal and human patients.
 

I graduated from the University of Veterinary Sciences Brno (Czech Republic), where I developed a strong interest in research alongside my veterinary training. Throughout my studies, I actively engaged in research-oriented activities and pursued several international externships across Europe and the United States, gaining exposure to different clinical and academic environments.
These experiences strengthened my motivation to pursue a career in research and contributed to my interest in oncology. I am currently based at Ghent University, where I am further developing my expertise in clinical oncology and translational cancer research, with a particular focus on innovative therapeutic approaches.
 

• Lab address: 
  Veterinary Oncology Science and Surgery (VOSS)
  Small Animal Department
  Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University
  Salisburylaan 133, entrance 75
  B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium 
• Vivienne Velic is involved in VON-CRIG (Veterinary Oncology Network of the, uniting all researchers of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine involved in cancer research; VON@ugent.be)
• Vivienne Velic is interested to receive invitations for talks or presentations