Throughout the 2025-2026 academic year, the theme of "Critical spirit, audacity, resistance" is being promoted by the University of Liège.
In this context, the Université de Liège welcomes Prof. Yasmine Belkaid for a lecture entitled "Control of host physiology by the microbiota".
The immune system has coevolved with diverse microbial communities residing at barrier sites, collectively known as the microbiota. Increasing evidence shows that microbial antigens and metabolites engage in a continuous dialogue with the immune system, driving microbiota-specific immune responses even in the absence of inflammation.
In this presentation, Professor Yasmine Belkaid will examine how immunity to the microbiota promotes various aspects of host physiology, ranging from protective immunity to tissue repair. She will also show how dysregulation of these immune responses can lead to inflammation and disease, and identify key outstanding questions regarding immune system–microbiota interactions.
During the lecture, Prof. Anne-Sophie Nyssen, Rector of the University of Liège, will present Prof. Yasmine Belkaid with anhonorary doctorate .
Lecture in French.
At the end of the lecture, a "verre de l'amitié" will be offered to all.
Yasmine Belkaid is an internationally renowned immunologist specializing in the study of interactions between microbes and the immune system. Since January 2024, she has been Director General of the Institut Pasteur in Paris.
Yasmine Belkaid's research focuses on the mechanisms of host-microbe interactions, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract and on the skin. She has contributed to the understanding of how the immune system distinguishes beneficial microbes from pathogens. Her work has also highlighted the role of beneficial skin bacteria in immune defense and wound healing. In addition, she has studied the impact of microbiota imbalances on chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and psoriasis.
This meeting is part of ULiège's Grandes conférences universitaires, open to both the university community and the general public.
More info on ULiège's major university conferences
ULiège Communication Service
communication@uliege.be - +32 (0)4 366 52 18
Join ULiège Alumni in Montreal on April 19, 2026 for a 5 à 7 of exchanges, meetings with the University delegation, and strengthened connections with the community based in Canada.
