A tribute to Professor Hugo de Jonge
Based at Erasmus University in Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Hugo was one of the first researchers to find that the CF protein was present in the guts, and from the moment that discovery was made in the late 1980s he dedicated his career to understanding the gut symptoms of CF. His research studies included being involved in testing the CFTR modulators before they were licenced. In 2017 he became a co-investigator of a Trust-funded ‘Gut fluidity’ Strategic Research Centre, led by Professor Soraya Shirazi-Beechey.
Hugo was one of the pioneers of ion transport physiology and his investigations form the basis of much of our understanding in gastrointestinal physiology. Cystic fibrosis research has lost one of its most ingenious members, a gifted scientist, a caring human being and an incredible friend. We will miss him, and he will never be forgotten. His wise and kind soul will remain with us
Professor Soraya Shirazi-Beechey
More recently, a discussion between Hugo and Dr Paola Vergani at UCL about writing a scientific review on what is known about CFTR protein in the intestines, led to a new and fruitful collaboration.
He was a wonderful collaborator. His enthusiastic initial agreement was followed by sustained participation and effort, from start to end. In Spring 2021 Hugo contacted me to discuss the possibility of working together on a new project, for which we then wrote a successful application. I am sure this was largely due to Hugo's contribution: his fascinating preliminary data, his organoid techniques, his experimental ideas, his vast knowledge of the subject. We are so indebted to Hugo. His memory will strengthen us on the pathway he set out for us
Dr Paola Vergani
We were very sorry to hear the news of Hugo’s death. The CF research community is like a family, and his knowledge, kindness and enthusiasm to contribute will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and many colleagues around the world
Dr Paula Sommer, Head of Research at Cystic Fibrosis Trust
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