Researchers involved
M. Claassen (Mark),
PhD student
B.E. Verstrepen (Babs),
PhD student
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Researchers involved |
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M. Claassen (Mark), PhD student |
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B.E. Verstrepen (Babs), PhD student |
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Hepatitis C Immunology, Rotterdam Liver Unit
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an example of a human viral pathogen that is
difficult to control by the immune system. As a result of this, about 80% of
individuals exposed to HCV become chronically infected. The long-term consequences
of chronic HCV infections can be severe, since patients are at increased risk
for developing liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. The
research in our laboratory is aimed at understanding why the immune response
to HCV is insufficient to clear the virus in infected patients, and if the unique
micro-environment of the liver contributes to this. In addition, since current
anti-viral therapy of chronic HCV patients is only partly effective, studies
are being conducted to determine the factors involved in the response to therapy.
This knowledge is important and will be used to improve therapeutic strategies
to treat chronic HCV patients. Our studies combine clinical and fundamental
research.
The fundamental immunological studies are directed by dr. André Boonstra,
while clinical expertise is provided by prof.dr. Harry Janssen and dr. Rob de
Knegt, both experts in the field of viral hepatitis.
Research projects:
Key publications
