New clinical professorship strengthens research in rare liver diseases
Thomas Damgaard Sandahl has been appointed clinical professor in rare liver diseases at the Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, and the Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology at Aarhus University Hospital. His research enhances the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of hereditary and rare liver diseases.
Thomas Damgaard Sandahl has conducted research for many years into Wilson's disease and cholestatic liver diseases. His research group combines clinical hepatology with advanced imaging, biomarkers, and preclinical models, aiming to translate new biological findings into improved patient care.
“The professorship gives me more time for research and thus the opportunity to strengthen the research environment, talent development, and the technologies that can bring us closer to more targeted treatments. This is crucial in a field where the rarity of the diseases limits the possibilities for traditional clinical studies,” says Thomas Damgaard Sandahl.
He is currently leading studies evaluating potential treatments for both Wilson’s disease and cholestatic liver diseases, including the first gene therapy initiatives for Wilson’s disease, using advanced imaging diagnostics. In addition, he coordinates major international studies on rare liver diseases through the European Reference Network, ERN Rare Liver.
Thomas Damgaard Sandahl’s research is particularly important for patients with rare liver diseases, whose treatment is often challenged by the insufficient development of both diagnostic tools and therapies.
Contact
Clinical Professor and Consultant Thomas Damgaard Sandahl
Aarhus University, Department of Clinical Medicine, and
Aarhus University Hospital, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology
Phone: +45 78 46 42 66
Email: tds@clin.au.dk