Specialization
Gastroenterologist with special ineterest in Hepatology
Focus of research
Cirrhosis
Portal hypertension
Hepatic Encephalopathy
I am a hepatologist with a special interest in complications of cirrhosis with special focus on portal hypertension. My research activities focus on mechanisms of portal hypertension and treatment of complications with Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts (TIPS) with special focus on prevention of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). In the field of HE-research I currently supervise multiple ongoing translational investigations.
As principal investigator (PI), I lead an international multicenter study—the PEARL-trial—on the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) following transjugular portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement. Additionally, I mentor a PhD candidate conducting research into the role of small intestinal enterocytes in the pathogenesis of HE, involving the development of an enterocyte organoid model to investigate the effects of rifaximin. The results of this research have recently been published.
Another field of interest is chronic chronic hepatitis B and Delta. I am PI of a Phase 1/2b trail of patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with terbinafine (HepBTer), as well as the local PI of an international 2b studiy of patients with chronic hepatitis B and Delta coinfection.
As a dedicated hepatologist, I combine rigorous scientific expertise with substantial social engagement to drive positive change both within and outside my field. As representative of the Dutch Society of Gastroenterologists in the National Prevention Agreement on alcohol-related complications I serve as an advisor to the Dutch government. Recognizing that liver disease is a global concern, and that amongst others, obesity is an increasing driver of liver disease, I joined the Policy, Public Health and Advocacy Committee of the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL). It is my mission to raise awareness of the detrimental effects of alcohol, to promote healthier lifestyles and to bring prevention to the forefront of the political agenda. Through educational outreach, advocacy, policy engagement, and strategic collaborations, I empower individuals and communities to make informed choices that reduce alcohol consumption and improve long-term health outcomes. Guided by professional insight and personal commitment, I strive for a future in which healthy habits are standard, and preventable alcohol-related diseases are meaningfully reduced.
In addition to my clinical, research and social roles, I am the treasurer of the Netherlands Association for the Study of the Liver (Nederlandse Vereniging voor Hepatologie) and former president of the Dutch Liver Week (4 years).