On Saturday, April 4, the NeuroD group opened their laboratories for an open day aimed at individuals affected by SCA1 and their families. The aim of the day was to provide insight into ongoing SCA1 research while offering participants a first-hand experience of the laboratory environment.
The program began with an overview of the SCA1 research conducted at LUMC over recent years. Ronald Buijsen presented the progression of these studies, highlighting how scientific insights are built incrementally over time. This was followed by a presentation from Professor Willeke van Roon-Mom, who outlined how research is translated from fundamental discovery into therapeutic development, including the key stages involved in bringing a potential treatment toward clinical application.
Following the presentations, participants engaged in interactive laboratory sessions. Gijs-Jan Scholten gave participants a tour through the labs and showed scientific posters on SCA1 research done by the NeuroD group. Next, Barry Pepers explained how PCR and gel electrophoresis are used in research and helped participants load a gel. Meanwhile, Maria Sáez González showed the different cell models that the group uses for their research. Last but not least, Jamie Hyde helped participants isolate their own DNA and capture it in a glass pendant. This was taken home as a souvenir of this day.
In addition to the scientific program, the event created space for discussion, questions, and exchange of perspectives. It also facilitated new connections between participants, including interactions with SCA1 patient representatives and members of the Dutch Ataxia patient organization.
This open day underscored the importance of direct engagement between researchers and the patient community. By increasing transparency and providing tangible insight into laboratory research, such initiatives help bridge the gap between science and lived experience. At the same time, the exchange of ideas and personal stories fosters mutual motivation and contributes to a more connected and engaged SCA1 research community.
