RENEE MAAS, MSC.

I am interested in modelling genetic heart diseases using patient specific induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs). To do so, we developed high throughput iPSC reprogramming strategies, to make multiple patient specific iPSC lines for studying the disease in vitro. I specialize in cardiac differentiations, 2D and 3D cardiac disease models. Using these cell culture systems we have set up multiple screening assays using iPSC-CMs such as lipid droplets, protein aggregation, and mitochondrial function and functional pathophysiological screenings for calcium handling and contractility. We aim to elucidate the molecular and functional mechanisms behind the pathological effect of the genetic heart diseases. By understanding the early signs of these myopathies, we are focusing on characterization, drug intervention, and preferably disease prediction. 

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Publications:

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E-mail: r.g.c.maas-2@umcutrecht.nl