PI
Specialization

Hematopoiesis, erythropoiesis

Focus of research
The focus of our research is to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive commitment of the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) to a megakaryocytic-erythroid progenitor (MEP), and that stimulate subsequent expansion and differentiation of the erythroid and megakaryocytic compartments. The aim of our research is to restore healthy numbers of erythrocytes and platelets in patients with congenital anemia or thrombocytopenia. Thereto we study (i) the requirements for large scale production of erythrocytes and platelets to generate personalized transfusion products, and (ii) in mechanisms that are affected in congenital anemia or thrombocytopenia with the aim to find other solutions than erythrocyte or platelet transfusion.