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MOLECULAR GASTRO-ENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGYOur research program centers on achieving a comprehensive molecular understanding of human gastrointestinal diseases. Our final goal is discovery novel paradigms for effective treatment of patients. We have taken an approach that begins with disease gene discovery through positional cloning to understand the genetic bases for the diseases, followed by functional studies to understand cellular pathogenesis. Our main focus is on polycystic liver disease, an autosomal dominant disorder. Though it is a rare disorder it provides us with an unique opportunity to study cystogenesis in man. Our other research lines encompass the identification of genetic aspects of chronic pancreatitis and the molecular pathology of inflammatory bowel diseases. The intestinal failure unit of our department harbours by far the largest population of patients on home parenteral (intravenous) nutrition in The Netherlands. The care for these complex patients conveys a considerable strain on our resources because of the high rate of complications. Complications are most often related to Pvenous access problems, such as recurrent catheter-related bloodstream infections. Our research efforts therefore focus on measures to decrease infections, by tailoring the composition of parenteral nutrition formulations (especially lipids) to sustain or restore immune system functions, and by exploring the feasibility of alternative devices (arteriovenous fistulae, catheter lock solutions) to decrease venous access-related problems. Theme leaders: Prof. Dr. Joost PH Drenth and Dr. Geert Wanten Postdoctoral fellows: Dr. Jannes Woudenberg Senior Technician: Rene te Morsche, Hennie Roelofs, Jody Salomon Research focus: polycystic liver disease | ||
