Koen Van de Wetering

Koen Van de Wetering, DVM, PhD, serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Biology at Thomas Jefferson University's Sidney Kimmel Medical College. His research program centers on ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, particularly the C subfamily, and their critical roles in dermatological conditions and ectopic mineralization disorders such as pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE). Dr. Van de Wetering's work has redefined understanding of ABCC6-mediated ATP release and its connection to pyrophosphate-dependent mineralization inhibition.

Dr. Van de Wetering's laboratory employs innovative metabolomics-based approaches to identify in vivo substrates of ABC transporters. His landmark discovery that ABCC6 facilitates ATP secretion from hepatocytes—subsequently converted to mineralization-inhibiting pyrophosphate—explains the systemic pathology of PXE despite ABCC6's hepatic localization. Current research focuses on molecular mechanisms of ABCC6 function and therapeutic translation, including pyrophosphate supplementation and small-molecule correctors for PXE. His group also investigates orphan transporters like ABCC5 and newly identified metabolites such as N-lactoyl amino acids.

Analysis of Dr. Van de Wetering's publication record reveals sustained investigation into heritable mineralization disorders, bridging fundamental transporter biology with clinical applications. His work demonstrates consistent progression from mechanistic studies (ABCC6-ATP-pyrophosphate axis) to therapeutic development (enzyme replacement, nucleotide analogs), with increasing emphasis on translational models and human pathophysiology.

Scientific recognition includes:

• American Hair Research Society Mentorship Grant for Short-Term Training Opportunities with Experts

Dr. Van de Wetering actively contributes to the PXE research community through the PXE International Biennial Research Symposium, where his group presents pathomechanism insights and treatment strategies. His mentorship activities extend to training opportunities supported by specialized grants, fostering next-generation researchers in dermatology and mineralization biology.

While specific laboratory infrastructure details are not provided in source materials, Dr. Van de Wetering's research environment integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and advanced metabolomics to dissect transporter functions. His collaborative approach is evident in cross-institutional studies on mineralization disorders and therapeutic development pipelines.