Prof. Dr. Diether Lambrechts and Prof. Dr. Patrice Cani received the Francqui-Collen Prize in June 2024 for pioneering medical research [1], [2].

The award, often referred to as the ‘Belgische Nobelprijs’, recognizes work that could fundamentally change how doctors treat cancer and manage metabolic diseases [2].

Lambrechts, a 49-year-old geneticist at KU Leuven and VIB, was honored for his development of cell-by-cell tumor mapping [1], [3]. This technique allows researchers to analyze the specific composition of a tumor to predict how a patient will respond to immunotherapy [1], [2]. By understanding the precise cellular environment, clinicians can better determine which treatments will be effective for individual patients.

"We are curing cancer with small steps," Lambrechts said [1].

The prize also recognizes the work of Prof. Dr. Patrice Cani of UCLouvain, who focused on the role of gut microbiota [2]. His research examines how bacteria in the digestive system influence the development of obesity and diabetes [2]. This intersection of genetics and microbiology suggests that the gut microbiome is a critical factor in systemic health, and chronic disease management.

"This is a recognition of our work on both cancer and the role of gut bacteria in obesity and diabetes," Cani said [2].

The ceremony, organized by the Francqui Foundation, took place in Brussels [2], [3]. The award highlights Belgium's role in advancing precision medicine, a field that moves away from one-size-fits-all treatments toward personalized care based on a patient's unique genetic and biological profile [1], [2].

“"We are curing cancer with small steps,"”

The recognition of cell-by-cell tumor mapping and gut microbiota research signals a shift toward precision medicine. By combining high-resolution genetic mapping with an understanding of the microbiome, researchers are moving closer to personalized therapies that can predict treatment success and target the biological roots of metabolic diseases.