MSc Esmeralda Meijboom

RESEARCH

In the human heart, occlusion of one of the coronary arteries can lead to the development of myocardial infarction. The interruption of the blood supply to the infarcted area results in a massive loss of cardiomyocytes and the formation of scar tissue. Following myocardial infarction, patients often develop heart failure as a result of insufficient pump function. In my PhD project we aim to redirect the wound healing process after myocardial infarction towards cardiac regeneration by combining mechanical and pharmacological support. This approach could potentially restore heart function, thereby preventing the development of heart failure.

In collaboration with the T/U Eindhoven (TU/e), we are developing a multi-component adhesive supramolecular fibrous mesh that we can apply to the infarcted area. This mesh combines a structural support layer with a drug-carrying layer, providing both mechanical support to the infarcted area and local delivery of relevant drugs. Together with Maastricht University we are focusing on targeting both the TGFβ- and WNT-signaling pathways to reduce the fibrotic response after myocardial infarction and promote cardiac regeneration.

CURRICULUM VITAE

I obtained my bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at Utrecht University. During these years, I developed a strong interest in the human heart and vasculature. To delve deeper into the cardiovascular field, I attended the Biology of Disease Master’s program at Utrecht University, specializing in cardiovascular research. I completed internships in both human heart electrophysiology and the damage response following myocardial infarction. Currently, I work as a PhD student in the group of Marie-José Goumans, focusing on the wound healing process after myocardial infarction.