Cellular Hemostasis
Introduction
Within the Laboratory of Cellular Hemostasis cell biological, immunological and biochemical approaches are integrated to advance our understanding of the interplay between vascular and immune cells with the hemostatic system. During the last five years emphasizes has been on proteomic and mechanistic studies to define the cargo of Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs) and cellular networks that contribute to their biogenesis and release from endothelial cells. This line of research is headed by Dr. Ruben Bierings. His group has pioneered the use of patient-derived blood outgrowth endothelial cells for these studies.
Another line of research focuses on the auto-immune disorder thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) which targets the von Willebrand factor cleaving protease ADAMTS13. Related to this line of research mechanistic studies aiming at unraveling the intrinsic immunogenicity of blood coagulation factor VIII are being conducted. The development of inhibitory antibodies upon administration of factor VIII in patients with hemophilia A is a major complication of hemophilia care. The ultimate goal of this line of research is to develop novel therapeutic approaches for prevention or eradication of the unwanted immune response to blood coagulation factor VIII. A recently initiated line of research focuses on the biology and survival of blood platelets. These studies are directed towards improving current therapeutic approaches for transfusion of platelet concentrates.
Funding
- EU-Horizon2020 (European Hematology Association)
- TSN (Netherlands thrombosis foundation)
- PPOC (internal funding in competition)
