I am a researcher pursuing my PhD in immunology and cardiovascular science with a background in biomedical science (BSc./MSc.), teaching (BSc.) and forensic science (MSc.). I developed an interest for cardiovascular research early on through my BSc. internship at The Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM) where I studied the physiological and structural dysfunction of cardiomyocytes in atrial fibrillation. I expanded on this foundation and ventured into vascular dysfunction during my MSc. internship at the department of vascular surgery of the LUMC where I investigated therapeutic strategies aimed at improving microvascular health for ex vivo heart regeneration. Following my graduate studies, I was allowed the opportunity to join the Aging and Immunity group of dr. Amanda Foks at the division of Biotherapeutics as a PhD candidate. I focus on the interplay between aging related changes in T- and B-cell compartments and their interactions in the context of atherosclerotic development. The majority of these interactions occur in secondary lymphoid organs, such as the spleen, where follicular T helper cells interact with B cells, aiding in cell proliferation, differentiation and somatic hypermutation. In turn, activated B-cells can produce auto-antibodies targeting oxidated LDL and necrotic debris in atherosclerotic plaques. Understanding the effect of aging on this interaction may contribute to the identification of biomarkers for the stratification of patients as well as the identification of therapeutic targets specific to the aged immune landscape to mitigate cardiovascular disease burden.

Publications