This research investigates how aging changes blood stem cells, causing them to produce excess sticky platelets that increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. By identifying the genetic mechanisms behind this age-related shortcut, the work aims to develop therapies that reduce cardiovascular disease while improving healing in patients with low platelet counts.
This research uses artificial intelligence to analyse immune-system data and predict vaccine effectiveness. By identifying early biological signals associated with strong, long-lasting immunity, the work aims to improve vaccine design, personalise vaccination strategies, and support development of universal vaccines capable of protecting against rapidly evolving infectious diseases.
This research investigates how cells select which protein fragments, or peptides, to display to the immune system. Contrary to previous assumptions, peptide presentation appears highly curated rather than random. Understanding these selection rules could improve cancer immunotherapy, enhance antiviral treatments, and provide new insights into autoimmune diseases.
This research investigates how the olfactory system of the Spanish ribbed newt adapts between aquatic and terrestrial environments. By analyzing cellular and genetic changes in the nose, the study reveals remarkable sensory plasticity, offering broader insights into nervous system flexibility and potential implications for understanding neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
This research uses spatial transcriptomics to map interactions between T cells, cancer cells, and immunosuppressive cells in tumours. Findings suggest cancer suppresses immune responses by surrounding and weakening T cells. The work aims to improve immunotherapy and enable personalised cancer treatment through detailed tumour mapping.
This research investigates how melanoma switches between two gene states—one fast-growing and treatable, the other slow but highly invasive and responsible for brain metastases. By identifying genes that control this transition, the study aims to force melanoma into a more treatable form, improving therapeutic options and patient outcomes.
Mitochondria power cells and communicate with the nucleus to control gene expression. This research builds minimal artificial cells containing only mitochondria and nuclei to isolate this signaling pathway. The system reveals how mitochondrial dysfunction alters gene expression, offering new insight into mechanisms underlying cancer and neurological diseases.
Low-grade serous ovarian cancer frequently returns after standard treatment, and current targeted drugs eventually stop working. This research investigates why cancer cells become resistant, comparing them to prey that adapt to evade a predator. By treating patient-derived tumor cells with inhibitors and analyzing the genes activated in the resistant survivors, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind drug resistance and guide development of more effective therapies.