NUTRIM Research
Research focus and expertise
NUTRIM conducts cutting-edge translational research on chronic metabolic and inflammatory diseases that significantly impact society. The institute's comprehensive research program investigates the intricate relationships between lifestyle choices and disease-specific elements in the development and advancement of metabolic inflammatory and chronic conditions. This work aims to develop tailored therapeutic approaches, personalized strategies, lifestyle interventions, and preventive measures.
Research areas in collaboration with departments
Included are 21 basic - and clinical sciences departments of Maastricht University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+) that encompass the entire spectrum of basic, translational, clinical, and prevention projects. Providing NUTRIM with a distinct international health sciences profile that optimally fits within the Maastricht UMC+ care vision and organisation.
NUTRIM Research areas
1. Metabolic Health
Our goals in research area 1 are to create a better mechanistic understanding of the etiology of obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, which all affect global health.
Led by Jogchum Plat & Susan Steinbusch
Our research in metabolic health
Case Studies of research area 1
2. Liver & Digestive Health
Central disorders investigated in research area 2 include inflammatory bowel disease, liver failure, irritable bowel syndrome, cancer cachexia, cholestasis and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Led by John Penders & Ronit Shiri Sverdlov
Our research in liver and digestive health
Case Studies of research area 2
3. Healthy Ageing
Research in area 3 aims to understand the onset of disease related to age and lifestyle and to identify people with an enhanced risk for disease and (re-)hospitalisation effectively early.
Led by Luc van Loon & Ramon Langen
Our research in healthy ageing
Case Studies of research area 3
Research themes and key expertises
Our core research is structured around integrated, multidisciplinary themes within three main research areas. These encompass five key expertise domains and address a wide range of chronic conditions. Supported by unique patient cohorts, an extensive biobank, and a state-of-the-art infrastructure for metabolic phenotyping, we adopt a network-based approach that connects tissue and organ systems in the context of chronic metabolic disorders.
NUTRIM’s research spans the entire human life cycle, aiming to enhance preventive lifestyle strategies, advance current and novel treatment options, and improve patient care and experience. Through its integrated approach, NUTRIM scientists are well-acquainted with emerging fundamental research concepts and equipped to translate scientific discoveries into clinical applications and meaningful public health outcomes. This strong research environment enables us to guide and mentor scientists at all stages of their academic careers.
