Episodes of incapacitating pain, bleeding, weight loss, and occasional hospitalization demanding surgery – this is the reality for approximately three million Europeans grappling with inflammatory bowel disease. Typically, treatments incorporate immunosuppressants like steroid drugs. However, even well-managed cases experience intermittent flare-ups, and identifying the underlying causes has remained a challenge. Thus, we are in grave need for new therapies.
Impact
We are developing stem cell-based therapies that will help restore organ function in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases.
reNEW research
reNEW Copenhagen group leader Prof. Kim Jensen and his team, including Dr. Martti Maimets, are investigating the natural replenishment of the intestine, as well as its response to disease. We leverage stem cell cultures for disease modelling and drug screening.
Image description
An intestinal organoid grown in the lab from a single stem cell.
Credits
Martti Maimets, Jensen lab, reNEW Copenhagen