dermatology, pigment cell research, immunology, oncology, autoimmunity, cancer immunotherapy, immunomonitoring, vitiligo, melasma, acquired dermal macular hyperpigmentation, lichen planus, skin cancer, merkel cell carcinoma, melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, outcome measures

Pigment cell disorders of the skin. 

Pigment cell disorders, such as vitiligo, are characterized by changes in skin pigmentation. Vitiligo is a depigmenting skin condition, mediated by autoimmunity against skin melanocytes. The visibility of white skin lesions in vitiligo patients and patients’ uncertainty on the disease course can have a major impact on the quality of life.

We aim to understand the pathogenesis of vitiligo in order to improve treatment options for patients. Moreover, we found that vitiligo patients have less risk of getting melanoma and other skin cancers. Conversely, melanoma patients who develop vitiligo have an improved survival. We are exploring the relationship of vitiligo and melanoma, to develop new types of immunotherapy for melanoma by the induction of vitiligo-associated immunity. In addition, we study vitiligo as a potential biomarker for immunotherapy response of melanoma patients.

We perform a wide range of research methodologies, including experimental and translational research on immunological, biochemical, molecular and cell biological mechanisms, as well as preclinical research in disease models and clinical or epidemiological research in patients.

Read more (in Dutch) at www.pigmentfonds.nl