Robert-jan Palstra

Robert-jan Palstra is a Researcher in the Department of Pathology at Erasmus MC, with a significant focus on molecular virology and cancer research. His work spans HIV-1 latency mechanisms, transcriptional regulation, and recently expanded into bladder cancer research.

Dr. Palstra's research interests center on HIV-1 latency, transcriptional regulation, and genomic mechanisms. His work specifically investigates how viral reservoirs are maintained during antiretroviral therapy and strategies for their elimination. His fingerprint reveals strong expertise in Human Immunodeficiency Virus research (100%), Transcription (54%), Regulatory Elements (43%), and Genomics (32%). Recent work has expanded into cancer research, particularly bladder cancer and ARID1A-related mechanisms.

Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) shows a clear trend toward translational research bridging basic molecular mechanisms with clinical applications. His work on HIV-1 latency has evolved from fundamental mechanisms (PCID2, BAF complex) toward practical diagnostic tools (RT-LAMP for reservoir quantification) and therapeutic strategies. The 2025 Cancer Letters paper indicates a strategic expansion into cancer research, applying similar molecular approaches to bladder cancer.

Dr. Palstra has supervised at least three research projects or students as indicated by the 'Supervised Work (3)' notation in his profile. His research appears to be conducted within collaborative teams, frequently with T. Mahmoudi and colleagues across multiple institutions, suggesting participation in larger research consortia focused on HIV cure strategies and cancer genomics.