Recently, pediatric neuroradiologist Prof. Andrea Rossi from the IRCCS Ospedale Pediatrico Giannina Gaslini in Genoa, Italy, visited the Dutch Fetal Biobank for a collaborative project on neural tube defects. Hosted by Puck Mulder, PhD Candidate on the 3D Fetal Atlas of Birth Defects, the meeting provided an invaluable opportunity to exchange expertise and insights in this vital area of research.

During the visit, the team explored the Biobank’s extensive collection of micro-CT scans and attended a live ultrasound demonstration presented by Wenjing Gou. The engaging discussions highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in understanding and addressing fetal development challenges.

Special thanks were extended to students Ines Vroegop and Charlotte van der Voort, who actively contributed their energy and hard work to the project. Their dedication played a key role in the successful execution of the meeting.

Prof. Rossi’s journey from Genoa to collaborate on this project underscores the commitment to advancing research on neural tube defects. His invaluable expertise has enriched the ongoing efforts at the Dutch Fetal Biobank, laying the groundwork for further discoveries in the field. The team looks forward to further the understanding of neural tube defects, their early diagnosis and their prevention.