Personal profile
Research interests
My research primarily centers on the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying thoracic aortopathies, including thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) and dissections (TAD). I aim to bridge the gap between preclinical research and clinical application, with a strong emphasis on the translational potential of my findings.
A significant focus of my research involves the comprehensive genetic analysis of patients with thoracic aortopathies. This includes the identification of novel genetic variants and the elucidation of their roles in the disease process. By leveraging advanced genomic technologies, my studies aim to uncover the genetic underpinnings of these conditions, particularly focusing on the interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental factors.
In addition to my genetic and molecular studies, I have co-developed the TRAIN Health Awareness Platform. This innovative program focuses on targeted cardiovascular risk modification by providing lifestyle interventions for the prevention of cardiovascular risk factors. The platform combines personalized health education with practical tools to enhance patient engagement and compliance, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases.
I am committed to the practical application of my research findings to develop improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients with thoracic aortopathies. My translational approach involves close collaboration with clinical geneticists and cardiologists to create genetic screening protocols and explore potential therapeutic targets, enhancing patient care and informing future research directions.
Moreover, I am deeply involved in mentoring the next generation of researchers, supervising clinical and fundamental postdocs, PhD students, and master students. My dedication to education and research excellence is reflected in numerous publications, international presentations, scientific funding, and contributions to scientific advisory boards.
Overall, my research interests lie at the intersection of clinical genetics, molecular biology, and translational medicine, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for patients with thoracic aortopathies through innovative research and collaborative efforts.
Specialisation
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Aortic Pathology
Genetics of Aortopathy
Education/Academic qualification
Basis Kwalificatie Onderwijs (BKO)
Award Date: 3 Apr 2024
Clinical Specialization Cardiothoracic Surgery
1 Jun 2016 → 1 Jan 2022
Award Date: 1 Jan 2022
USMLE Step 1, Step 2CK, Step 2CS. ECFMG certified
Award Date: 1 Oct 2016
PhD, Aortopathy in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve : determining susceptibility for aortic complications, Department of Anatomy and Embryology and Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center
Oct 2013 → Feb 2015
Award Date: 19 Feb 2015
Master, Medicine, VU University Medical Center
Award Date: 1 Oct 2013
External positions
Visiting professor, Yale University Medical Center
Keywords
- RD Surgery
- QH426 Genetics
- RB Pathology
- R Medicine (General)
Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):
-
SDG 3 Good Health and Well-being
Fingerprint
- 1 Similar Profiles
Collaborations and top research areas from the last five years
-
Aortic wall lamellar structure in phylogeny and in humans: insights from bicuspid and tricuspid aortic valve morphology
Bacour, N., Zafar, M., Kargin, N., Zinganshin, B., Poelmann, R., Klautz, R. J. M., Elefteriades, J. & Grewal, N., 1 Jan 2026, In: Cardiovascular pathology. 80, 107789.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › Academic › peer-review
Open AccessFile18 Downloads (Pure) -
Beyond Survival: Assessing Quality of Life, Activity Level, and Ethnic Diversity in Aortic Dissection Survivors
Bacour, N., van Erp, O., Grewal, S., Tirpan, A. U., Eberl, S., Yeung, K. K., Balm, R., Verwoert, G. C., Driessen, A. H. G., Klautz, R. J. M. & Grewal, N., 1 Feb 2025, In: Journal of cardiovascular development and disease. 12, 2, 78.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › Academic › peer-review
Open AccessFile29 Downloads (Pure) -
Bridging Barriers: Engaging Ethnic Minorities in Cardiovascular Research
Bacour, N., Grewal, S., Ploem, M. C., Suurmond, J., Klautz, R. J. M. & Grewal, N., 1 Jun 2025, In: Healthcare (Switzerland). 13, 11, 1217.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › Academic › peer-review
Open AccessFile23 Downloads (Pure) -
Brief Review: Racial Disparities in the Presentation and Outcomes of Patients with Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms
Bacour, N., Theijsse, R. T., Grewal, S., Klautz, R. J. M. & Grewal, N., 1 Apr 2025, In: Journal of cardiovascular development and disease. 12, 4, 140.Research output: Contribution to journal › Review article › Academic › peer-review
Open AccessFile29 Downloads (Pure) -
Comparison of cardiovascular risk profiles of patients with type A aortic dissection and thoracic aortic aneurysm: a retrospective multicentre study
Tirpan, A. U., Dolmaci, O. B., Jansen, E. K., Twisk, J. W. R., Klautz, R. J. M. & Grewal, N., 23 Sept 2025, In: BMJ open. 15, 9, e097306.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › Academic › peer-review
Open AccessFile56 Downloads (Pure)
Prizes
-
4th International Meeting on Aortic Disease: Best oral presentation
Grewal, N. K. (Recipient), 2016
Prize › Academic
-
-
Nederlandse Vereniging voor Cardiologie: Best Oral Presentation
Grewal, N. K. (Recipient), 2015
Prize › Academic
-
Nederlandse Vereniging voor Thoraxchirurgie: Best oral presentation
Grewal, N. K. (Recipient), 2015
Prize › Academic
-