Researchers have maintained brain organoids for over 5 years, mirroring human brain development. The tissue exhibits complex cellular interactions, neuronal activity, and epigenetic changes, providing insights into neurodevelopment and potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to reconstruct COVID-19 spread in Dutch schools, showing that targeted closures can reduce hospital admissions. The study highlights the value of mathematical models for informing public health decisions during outbreaks.
Researchers have discovered a previously underappreciated mechanism that helps immune cells respond rapidly to infections by altering RNA splicing. This study provides new insights into immune-mediated diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and may lead to more targeted therapies.
Researchers have found a widely available drug combination to be an effective treatment for patients with systemically active Sjögren's disease. The combination of leflunomide and hydroxychloroquine reduced disease activity while maintaining a favorable safety profile.
Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht have discovered new genetic abnormalities associated with ALS, improving understanding and providing leads for targeted treatments.
A new study suggests that autoantibodies from Long COVID patients can induce persistent pain-like symptoms in mice, providing evidence for a potential causal role of autoantibodies in the condition. The research also highlights distinct biological subgroups and offers hope for targeted antibody-based therapies.
The study will select the exact phage that is appropriate for each patient's bacteria, and aims to reduce antibiotic use and healthcare costs. Bacteriophages have been shown to be effective against resistant bacteria causing urinary tract infections.
Two first-in-class antibodies, C01 and C04, have been developed to inhibit inflammation in autoimmune diseases by blocking the high-affinity IgG receptor FcγRI. The antibodies were discovered using a unique immunization method and exhibit higher affinity for FcγRI than human IgG.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht are developing a predictive model to accurately predict disease progress in juvenile dermatomyositis. The Interferon Score aims to identify which children can safely reduce medication and which require intensified treatment.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht discovered that converting monoclonal antibodies from IgG to IgM isotype can significantly broaden their ability to recognize and bind multiple human-relevant bacterial pathogens. This finding could guide the future design of antibody therapies against bacterial infections.
Researchers have discovered myeloid cells in children's liver tumors that could be activated for treatment. This discovery provides new avenues for immunotherapy in childhood liver cancer.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed a new AI-powered printer called GRACE that can print implantable tissues with improved cell survival and functionality. The printer uses computer vision and laser-based imaging to design and print complex structures, including blood vessels and cartilage layers.
A new stem cell treatment administered via nasal drops has shown positive development in babies with brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation around birth. Most children treated showed improved motor skills and no long-term neurological problems, with a significant reduction in cerebral palsy compared to historical control groups.
A new study highlights major hurdles for multinational clinical trials in Europe, including differences in timelines and processing times between countries. Researchers found that the UK made significant gains in efficiency during the pandemic, while non-UK countries lagged behind.
A mathematical modeling study suggests that sustained HIV remission or eradication could consistently reduce new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands. However, transient remission with a risk of rebound may increase new infections if not closely monitored.
Scientists at UMC Utrecht developed a new technology to isolate and study gut bacteria recognized by IgA antibodies, which are associated with various diseases. The next-generation IgA-SEQ method allows for high-throughput identification and analysis of these immunostimulatory bacteria, shedding light on their role in health and disease.
A team of researchers at UMC Utrecht has identified 29 novel antibodies against the bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae, an important cause of drug-resistant infections. The antibodies were found to interact with antigens on the bacterial surface and some act synergistically to neutralize the pathogen.
The DRIVE-RM consortium, led by UMC Utrecht, aims to develop smart materials that assist the body in healing and regenerate tissues and organs using regenerative medicine. The project focuses on treating chronic diseases such as heart failure, kidney failure, and worn joints.
Jos Malda receives ERC grant to crack cartilage code and create regenerative treatments. By studying cartilage 'organ-on-a-chip' models and animal cartilages, researchers aim to recreate the intricate internal structure of cartilage.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed an AI model to predict long-term outcomes in extremely premature babies, identifying those at risk of intellectual disability. The model analyzed brain activity data with 80% accuracy, offering valuable information for healthcare providers and parents about expected developmental journeys.
A recent study found that transient inflammatory pain causes persistent mitochondrial and metabolic disturbances in sensory neurons, leading to failure in pain resolution. Targeting the cellular redox balance prevents and treats chronic inflammatory pain in rodents.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht developed a deep-learning algorithm that can identify brain tumor types within 20-40 minutes, allowing neurosurgeons to adjust surgical strategies on the spot. This technology has shown promising results and is already being used in clinical practice.
Researchers aim to identify genetic risk factors and mechanisms underlying virus-induced asthma, using artificial intelligence-based techniques and patient-derived models. The study may lead to personalized prevention campaigns and mechanism-targeted drugs.
Recent innovations in volumetric bioprinting by UMC Utrecht researchers enable faster and more clinically relevant printing of living tissues. By controlling chemical properties, the team creates smart materials that guide cell behavior and development, mimicking native biochemical environments.
Researchers at the University Medical Center Utrecht combined volumetric bioprinting and melt electrowriting to create functional blood vessels. The technique allowed for the creation of tubes, forked vessels, and even venous valves with unidirectional flow, paving the way for further development into a fully functional blood vessel.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht successfully merged two printing techniques to create functional tissues made from stem cells. Granular biogels enable high cell density, survival, and specialization, surpassing solid gels. This breakthrough boosts tissue functionality and opens up opportunities for regenerative medicine.
UMC Utrecht researchers are conducting two new projects to treat cancer using image-guided interventions. One project uses MRI-guided radiotherapy for locally advanced pancreatic cancer, while the other employs ultrasound techniques for head and neck cancers.
Scientists adapted volumetric bioprinting to create three-dimensional, biologically functional areas within printed gels. The technique enables the infusion of biomolecules and growth factors into gelatin structures, creating a chemical map that guides cells to develop or specialize accordingly.
A study by UMC Utrecht shows that corona patients can measure their blood oxygen levels at home using a pulse oximeter, feeling safe and experiencing more control. This method does not increase GP visits or hospitalization but contributes to relieving caregivers and keeping healthcare affordable.
A €10M Horizon Europe grant will support the development of a clinical decision support tool using artificial intelligence to select the best treatment for each individual patient with high blood pressure. The project aims to improve patient care and reduce avoidable consequences such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
Researchers discovered brain speed doubles between 4 and 40 years old, with frontal lobe development outpacing movement areas. The study provides important data for creating realistic computer models of the brain.
A large Dutch study found that the BCG vaccine does not protect elderly people with co-morbidities against COVID-19 symptoms. The study analyzed 6,112 participants and showed no difference in disease manifestations or hospitalizations between those who received the vaccine and those who received a placebo.
Researchers have isolated two new bacterial species from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which break down the protective mucus layer of the gut. The bacteria, Allobaculum mucilyticum and Allobaculum fili, are highly efficient at degrading intestinal mucus, leading to potent immune responses.
Researchers found that prednisolone has no effect on improving sense of smell after COVID-19, but patients' sense of smell gradually improves over time. The study suggests that corticosteroids may not be an effective treatment option for persistent olfactory disorders after COVID-19.
Researchers at UMC Utrecht will investigate how intestinal microbiota impacts cancer immunotherapy and therapy side effects. The project aims to develop microbiota-targeted therapies to improve ICI treatment effectiveness and reduce severe inflammation.
Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht discovered that fish oil supplements containing omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can induce resistance to a broad spectrum of chemotherapies. The study found that the body's own protective substances, which are also present in fish oil, can block the effect of chemotherapy.
A study by Dutch researchers has found that a hormone level test can predict when women will reach menopause, enabling them to make informed decisions about family planning and career choices. The test uses Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels to determine an individual's predicted age of menopause.
Researchers found that administering antibiotics as a preventive measure to patients in intensive care units increases their chances of survival, with a reduction of 3.5% in ICU deaths. The study involved nearly 6,000 patients and showed that using antibiotics resulted in fewer deaths compared to standard ICU care.
Researchers at University Medical Center Utrecht have successfully grown large numbers of stem cells from adult human hearts into new heart muscle cells. The stem cells can be used to study cardiac arrhythmia, test new medicines, and potentially repair damaged heart tissue. This breakthrough in stem cell research could move forward res...