Congratulations to Dr. Shai Bel: Rector's Prize for Scientific Innovation Ceremony

Congratulations again to Dr. Shai Bel, upon receipt of the Rector's Prize for Scientific Innovation (the prize was awarded to 12 researchers for their groundbreaking research in the fields of science, society and culture) - for the discovery of the control system that controls the amount of mucus secreted in the intestine. The digestive system is exposed to bacteria and viruses from the environment and food. In order to protect against the intrusion of pests, the body secretes mucus which acts as a buffer between the body's tissues and the outside world, which allows the passage of substances (oxygen and food), but not the passage of harmful factors. Too little secretion of mucus exposes the body to infections, and too much secretion causes diseases, such as asthma. In his research, Dr. Bel discovered how to control this system in a targeted way that protects against intestinal diseases. Manipulation of this system can lead to a cure for inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's and Colitis) and respiratory diseases.

A ceremony took place at the Bar-Ilan Ramat Gan campus on May 20, 2024.

A short video describing Dr. Bel's exciting research can be viewed here.