Martin Houweling

Dr. Martin Houweling is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. His research focuses on cell biology, metabolism, and cancer, with particular emphasis on lipid metabolism in hepatic stellate cells and its implications for liver disease.

His research interests span multiple interconnected domains of cellular metabolism and disease mechanisms. Dr. Houweling investigates lipid droplet dynamics in hepatic stellate cells during activation, examining how retinyl esters and triacylglycerols are metabolized during liver fibrosis progression. His work explores vitamin A metabolism and storage mechanisms, particularly the role of LRAT-independent pathways. He also studies parasite metabolism, notably in Schistosoma mansoni, revealing how these organisms utilize lipids for biosynthetic rather than energy purposes. His research employs advanced techniques including lipidomics, mass spectrometry, and 3D cell culture systems to understand cellular metabolic reprogramming.

Dr. Houweling's publication record reveals a consistent focus on lipid metabolism and cell biology spanning several decades. His recent work (2023-2025) shows increasing application of his fundamental research to disease models, particularly liver fibrosis and metabolic disorders. He has made significant contributions to understanding the two-stage process of hepatic stellate cell activation and the formation of distinct lipid droplet populations. His work bridges basic science with potential clinical applications, as evidenced by his research on feline hepatic lipidosis treatment and hepatic progenitor cell proliferation.

Dr. Houweling teaches courses related to biochemistry and metabolism, including 'Biochemistry: Metabolism in Health and Disease' and 'Veterinary Professional level 2 Metabolism and Regulation From cell to molecule.' His research has been supported by academic grants that enabled his extensive publication record spanning veterinary medicine, cell biology, and biochemistry.

His laboratory work centers on hepatic stellate cell biology, employing advanced lipidomic approaches to understand metabolic reprogramming during liver disease progression. His team utilizes in vitro models including liver organoids to study metabolic diseases and potential therapeutic interventions.