معرفی
Koen Poesen is a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, where he serves as Department Chair of the Department of Neuroscience and Head of the Laboratory for Molecular Neurobiomarker Research (LAMON). He is also a permanent medical staff member/clinical biologist at University Hospital Leuven's Department of Laboratory Medicine. His institutional affiliations include membership in the LBI - KU Leuven Brain Institute and Leuven.IRD - KU Leuven Institute for Rare Diseases.
Dr. Poesen's research focuses on discovering novel protein biomarkers for neurological and neuroimmunological diseases through immunoassays and mass spectrometry. His work specifically targets conditions including ALS, CIDP, and Alzheimer's disease, analyzing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and blood samples. By correlating protein levels with clinical parameters, imaging data (MRI/PET), and histological findings, his laboratory aims to understand disease mechanisms and develop clinically useful biomarkers.
His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on blood-based biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, with particular focus on neurofilament light chain quantification, Alzheimer's disease diagnostics, and ALS prognostic indicators. His work shows a clear trajectory toward translating basic biomarker discoveries into clinical applications, with several proteins already implemented as biomarkers in clinical practice.
Dr. Poesen holds multiple leadership roles including Chair of the Departmental Council of Neurosciences, Chair of the Department of Neuroscience Board, and membership on the Research Policy Council. He is actively involved in numerous research projects through 2029, primarily focused on biomarker discovery for neurodegenerative conditions.
His teaching responsibilities include courses in laboratory medicine, immunology, hematology, and neurobiology of disease, reflecting his dual expertise in clinical laboratory science and neuroscience research.