PhD defence L. (Luke) van der Koog

Uncovering the secrets of the secretome: innovative strategies for targeting defective alveolar epithelial repair in COPD

In this thesis, Luke van der Koog explores a novel approach to treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a debilitating lung condition affecting millions worldwide. COPD causes irreversible lung tissue damage, making breathing increasingly difficult and drastically impacting the quality of life of patients. While current treatments can relieve symptoms, they are unable to repair damaged lung tissue. Van der Koog’s research, therefore, focuses on innovative ways to stimulate lung tissue regeneration.

A key aspect of his thesis is the communication between various cells within the alveoli, such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells, which play an essential role in supporting lung repair. Van der Koog discovered that molecules like the protein osteoglycin and the growth factor BMP6—released by fibroblasts and endothelial cells, respectively—significantly contribute to lung tissue regeneration. To deliver these molecules effectively and directly to the lungs, he developed a new inhalable dry powder therapy. This formulation ensures that the active compounds remain stable and reach deep into lung tissue, maximizing their restorative effects.

The research of Van Der Koog represents an important step toward developing regenerative therapies that not only alleviate COPD symptoms but also actively support the repair of damaged lung tissue, advancing therapeutic options for long-term COPD health management.