Philippe Vangrieken

Assistant professor

Glycation, Metabolism, and Vascular Medicine

About Info

Philippe Vangrieken, PhD, ERT, is a biomedical researcher with European Registered Toxicologist (ERT) certification, specializing in the toxicity of bioactive compounds and vascular biology. He has been appointed as an Assistant Professor at Maastricht University in 2024. His research expertise includes the in vivo and ex vivo assessment of vascular function and stiffness, employing advanced methodologies such as ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, Mulvany pressure myography, and UPLC-MS/MS for precise analytical assessments.

His research focuses on advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and methylglyoxal (MGO), compounds produced both endogenously and through dietary intake, and their impact on metabolic and vascular health. These processes are deeply intertwined: metabolic dysfunction can trigger inflammation, which in turn compromises vascular integrity, creating a vicious cycle that contributes to chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and age-related conditions.

Using state-of-the-art mass spectrometry (MS), he measures a broad panel of dicarbonyls, AGEs, and oxidative stress markers in plasma, urine, and tissues. This technique forms the cornerstone of his research. Complementing MS, he also employs biochemical assays, molecular biology techniques, and advanced imaging tools, enabling exploration of the sources, dynamics, and effects of these compounds.

His investigations span laboratory models and human populations, including large cohort studies such as The Maastricht Study. This combined approach bridges molecular analyses with physiological and clinical outcomes, helping to identify early markers of disease risk and progression.

By integrating advanced analytical techniques with vascular imaging and wire myography, his work provides insights into the mechanisms linking metabolic disturbances, inflammation, and vascular dysfunction. Through his research, he aims to develop targeted interventions and preventive measures that promote healthier metabolic and vascular systems while addressing the broader societal challenges of aging and chronic disease.