Henkjan Verkade

Professor Henkjan Verkade is a distinguished academic in the Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Groningen, holding the position of Professor of Pediatrics with specialization in Gastroenterology/Hepatology. His clinical and research activities are centered at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), where he has established himself as a leading expert in pediatric liver diseases and cholestatic disorders.

Verkade's research interests span a wide range of pediatric hepatology topics including lipid metabolism, bile acid disorders, liver transplantation, and novel therapeutic approaches for rare cholestatic conditions. His work bridges fundamental molecular mechanisms with clinical applications, particularly focusing on bile acid metabolism and its implications for pediatric liver diseases. He has made significant contributions to understanding the pathophysiology of conditions like Alagille syndrome, progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC), and cystic fibrosis-related liver disease.

Analysis of his recent publications (2025) reveals a strong emphasis on translational research in pediatric hepatology. His work demonstrates consistent focus on bile acid metabolism, novel pharmacotherapies (particularly odevixibat), and clinical outcomes in rare liver diseases. The research spans from basic science investigations using mouse models to large international clinical studies and meta-analyses. A notable trend is his leadership in developing evidence-based approaches for rare cholestatic diseases and establishing classification systems for genetic variants in liver disorders.

• Clinical Research Fellow of the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO-KWO) 1992-2000
• Fellow of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences 2000-2005
• Member of the Hepatology Committee of ESPGHAN (2014-2020), serving as Chair from 2016-2020
• Member of the Board of ESPGHAN (2016-2020)

Professor Verkade has supervised numerous research projects and students throughout his career, with 44 supervised works documented. His research has attracted significant funding for studies on pediatric liver diseases, particularly focusing on rare cholestatic conditions and innovative treatment approaches. He serves as a consultant for pharmaceutical companies developing therapies for rare liver diseases including Albireo/Ipsen, Intercept, Mirum, Orphalan, ProQR and Vertex. His leadership extends to international collaborations through the NAPPED registry and Global ALagille Alliance (GALA) study group.

Verkade leads research activities within the Metabolism and Transport (MT) group at UMCG, contributing to the broader efforts of the Faculty of Medical Sciences in advancing pediatric hepatology. His work is integral to the university's commitment to addressing rare pediatric liver diseases through both fundamental research and clinical innovation.