Najim Lahrouchi (Experimental Cardiology, AMC) - Identifying novel genes for congenital heart disease
Congenital heart disease is a common birth defect and in the majority of cases the underlying genetic cause remains unknown. The is partly due to the rudimentary understanding of how the human heart develops. I combine studies in human fetal hearts with genetic analyses in large patient sets with congenital heart disease to identify novel genes underlying these disorders.
Annette Neele (Medical Biochemistry, AMC) - The hidden identity: macrophage-to-myofibroblast transdifferentiation in atherosclerosis
Macrophage transdifferentiation in atherosclerosis:Macrophages are key immune regulators of atherosclerosis. The researcher will study a novel mechanism by which macrophages contribute to disease, via transdifferentiation into myofibroblast-like cells. These transdifferentiated cells acquire characteristics that contribute to atherosclerotic plaque stability, an undescribed feature for macrophages. Applying cell-culture systems, the researcher will identify regulators and mechanisms that contribute to transdifferentiation of macrophages in atherosclerosis.
Rik Olde Engberink (Nephrology, AMC) - Dehydration with a grain of salt
Salt can accumulate in large amounts in the skin and muscle. Local salt storage has been related to high blood pressure but the exact mechanism is unknown. This research will look at the link between local salt storage, long-term water homeostasis and blood pressure regulation, and test whether high blood pressure can be treated by intervening in this process.
About the Veni grant
Veni is an individual science grant, part of the NWO Talent Programme, and aimed at researchers who have recently obtained their PhDs. The NWO Talent Programme gives researchers the freedom to pursue their own research based on creativity and passion. The programme encourages innovation and curiosity. Curiosity-driven research contributes to and prepares us for tomorrow's society. That is why NWO focuses on a diversity in terms of researchers, domains, and backgrounds. Together with the Vidi and Vici grants, Veni is part of the Talent Programme.
NWO selects researchers based on the academic quality and the innovative character of the research proposal, the scientific and/or societal impact of the proposed project, and the quality of the researcher.
For more information about the awarded Veni grants 2022 visit this page
Source: NWO