New clinical professor strengthens research in chronic liver disease

Karen Louise Thomsen conducts research into liver inflammation in relation to chronic liver diseases. Her work examines how inflammation affects both the liver and the brain, as well as the underlying disease mechanisms. Her research ranges from clinical studies involving patients to mechanistic studies in animal models and cell-based experiments.

“My work is largely about understanding the mechanisms driving chronic liver disease and identifying new treatments that can improve patient outcomes. The professorship gives me better opportunities to generate national and international awareness of our research findings, while also freeing up time to immerse myself in the projects,” she says.

Karen Louise Thomsen is currently leading a large randomised multicentre study investigating the effect of faecal microbiota transplantation from healthy donors to patients with cirrhosis. The research team is studying the impact on complications and mortality among these severely ill patients, as well as the role of gut microbiota composition and the mechanisms behind any potential effects.

In addition, her research has uncovered cognitive changes in both patients and animals with fatty liver disease, highlighting the role of inflammation as a possible explanation and therapeutic target.

Contact

Clinical Professor and Consultant Karen Louise Thomsen
Aarhus University, Department of Clinical Medicine and
Aarhus University Hospital, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology
Phone: +45 26 94 92 60
Email: karen.louise.thomsen@clin.au.dk