Utrecht Batten Lab

Research aim

To identify the metabolic consequences of CLN3 deficiency using model organisms and omics approaches, and to translate these findings into relevant biomarkers that improve diagnosis, disease monitoring and therapy development for Batten disease.

About us

Our research group at the Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital (UMC Utrecht) is dedicated to improving the understanding and treatment of CLN3 disease, also known as Batten disease. This rare neurodegenerative disorder affects children and currently has no cure.

Our team brings together clinical and fundamental research. Pediatric metabolic specialist Peter van Hasselt works closely with patients and families to better understand the clinical progression of the disease and to identify diagnostic markers. In parallel, researcher Ursula Heins-Marroquin studies the molecular mechanisms of CLN3 using experimental models and advanced metabolic analyses.

By combining patient-based research with laboratory studies, we aim to translate biological discoveries into practical clinical applications. Our goal is to identify biomarkers, improve early diagnosis, and contribute to the development of future treatments for children affected by Batten disease.
Through collaboration between clinicians, scientists, and patient organizations, we strive to accelerate progress toward better care and new therapeutic strategies.