Specialization
Single cell and spatial transcriptomics analyses in fistulizing Crohn's Disease.
Luminal gut fungi (mycobiome) in Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Focus of research
My current research focuses on single cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics application in the context of intestinal disease. My main research focus lies with fistulizing Crohn's Disease (fCD). The development of perianal fistulae is a debilitating complication that occurs in approximately 25% of CD patients. The pathological mechanisms underlying perianal fistulae remains largely unknown, and I will employ novel techniques to gain more knowledge about these unnatural passageways.
My previous research topic, also in the field of gastroenterology, comprehended the role of gut fungi in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Earlier research from our group suggested that luminal gut fungi are relevant in abdominal pain perception. During my PhD research and first postdoctoral period, I aimed to elucidate the mechanisms through which fungi or its components are mediating pain. My research resulted in a PhD thesis, which I defended on Nov 4th, 2022.