Specialization
- Iron metabolism
- Sex hormones
- Mitochondria
- Day-night rhythms
Focus of research
I am a postdoctoral researcher in the department of Endocrinology. My research focuses on iron and energy metabolism, combining my previous postdoctoral work at NYU (New York University), and doctoral work at Amsterdam UMC.
Every living cell needs iron, where its used not only for heme but also for Iron-Sulfur (Fe-S) clusters. These Fe-S clusters are important for many metabolic enzymes and energy production. Conversely, the iron pool should be kept at a minimum, as excess free iron is harmful due to its reactivity. For this reason, many iron regulatory mechanisms evolved to prevent both iron deficiency and iron toxicity. My research focusses on these iron regulatory pathways, as many people will, or already experience problems regarding iron status. That is:
1. Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency, affecting ~40% women causing fatigue, muscle/joint pain, sleep problems and more.
2. Iron accumulates in almost all tissues during aging, which is associated with many age-related diseases.