Hematopoietic stem cells and effector cells are vital components of Sanquin's product portfolio and widely used in cellular therapies worldwide. My research involves novel methods and culture systems to produce these cellular products in vitro without relying on donors, enabling tailored treatments.

To achieve this, I focus on comprehensive understanding of erythropoiesis, megakaryopoiesis, and general hematopoiesis development, aligning with Sanquin's research strategy. I established an iPSC facility at Sanquin, facilitating reprogramming, maintenance, and differentiation of iPSC into hematopoietic cells. This supports disease modeling, gene editing, and the development of advanced therapy medicinal products. The knowledge gained not only contributes to the production of classical cellular products but also drives the development of new therapeutic solutions and diagnostic tools.

For example, we have devised a methodology using turbulent 3D printed bioreactors to generate large quantities of cultured red blood cells, which will undergo clinical testing. Furthermore, we employ gene editing strategies to tailor the final products to the specific needs of patients, particularly for curative treatments of Sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. Additionally, I am an assessor and examiner of students at UvA and organize a month-long master course titled "Making and Shaping Blood" in the biomedical sciences track.

Hematopoiesis, iPSC, erythropoiesis, megakaryopoiesis, ontogeny