Groupmembers
Danielle M. Gerlag, MD, PhD – Team Leader
Rheumatologists:
Dominique Baeten, MD, PhD
Arno van Kuijk, MD
Koen Vos, MD, PhD
Philip Remans, MD, PhD
Study doctors:
Maartje Boumans, MD
Carla Wijbrandts, MD
Rogier Thurlings, MD
Clarissa Vergunst, MD
Marleen van de Sande, MD
Sarah Krauz, MD
Research nurses:
Mariane Anson
Margot Colombijn
Angelina Roelse
Internal Monitor:
Dorine Sijpkens
Secretaries:
Marlien Splinter
Sanne Klooster
Research
The research performed by the Clinical Research Unit, probably one of the largest phase I study units in the rheumatology field worldwide, mainly focuses on designing and conducting clinical studies in which novel therapeutic targets for immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases are tested. Our goal is the translation of novel therapeutic agents from bench to bedside. This is done by performing early proof-of-concept and biomarker-based studies, which, combined with cutting-edge basic research in immunology, provides insight into pathophysiologic mechanisms in these inflammatory diseases. New discoveries resulting from this research lead to the development of innovative therapies and further basic research. Through collaboration with other research units in the world and by investigator-initiated projects we are able to work at the forefront of rheumatologic research.
Until now, our unit has conducted a large number of trials of new therapies for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematodes. In addition, our focus is on spondyloarthropathies. Recently, targeted small molecules and biologicals have been the main focus of our work. New trials with chemokine and cytokine blockers, B cell inhibitors, and other targeted therapies are initiated regularly.
Methodological research using the setup of small proof-of-principle studies to identify and validate reliable (synovial) biomarkers is a hallmark of our research. To evaluate outcome measures, novel imaging techniques, as well as needle-arthroscopy, are used.
The detection of prognostic, diagnostic and therapeutic markers in pre-clinical and early arthritis is another focus of our research. With the search for the different underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and the role of specific factors involved in different phases of the disease, we aim at the identification of markers that can be used to establish a diagnosis in the very earliest phase of several forms of arthritis. This may lead to earlier treatment and, as a consequence, to better prognosis for our patients.
Information for patients and referring physicians (NL): www.reuma-onderzoek.nl