Dr. Carlo Breda’s research group is interested in the investigation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms causing the onset and progression of human neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders to define novel genetic and pharmacological interventions for their treatments. We use the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as model organism exploiting both cutting-edge molecular and behavioural approaches
Dr. Mohsen Seifi’s research overarching aim is to utilise a range of in-vitro, x-vivo and in-vivo assays to investigate the mechanisms through which chronic exposure to negative environmental factors such as psychosocial stress and toxins such as pollutant during one's life can lead to neuronal damage and development of brain diseases, especially neurodegenerative disorders.
Dr. Mark Evans. Examination of anti-cancer potential of plant-derived pentacyclic triterpenes (boswellic and betulinic acids), mechanisms and interaction with cancer chemotherapy drugs in the context of ovarian cancer. This work crosses over into pre-existing research interests in oxidative stress, cellular antioxidant defence and the role of DNA damage and repair in cancer cell response to these substances.
Dr. Dawn Smallwood. Severe asthma affects about 4% of people with asthma who respond poorly to current treatments. In asthma over-active mast cells cause increased and harmful airway inflammation. With funding from the Midlands Asthma and Allergy Research Association, in collaboration with the University of Leicester, we are using spatial transcriptomics to quantify thousands of genes in bronchial biopsy samples to investigate the mechanisms driving abnormal mast cell function. Our aim is to identify new ways in which mast cells can be targeted effectively with new drugs to improve care for people with asthma.
Dr. Da Boit’s lab focuses on the potential of bioactive compounds and their metabolites, especially polyphenols metabolites, to alter cell signalling pathways and gene expression and thus improve vascular health and prevent vascular diseases. To answer her research questions Dr Da Boit uses a variety of techniques and both in-vitro and in-vivo models. Moreover, Dr Da Boit’s lab also conducts research on how nutritional interventions can modulate physiological and psychological factors of appetite regulation and contribute to weight management.
Dr. Neenu Singh. My research expertise involves interdisciplinary skills in nano(geno)toxicology of metal oxide nanoparticles, functionalised mesoporous silica, consequences of nanomedicine-related nanomaterials to human health, DNA damage assessment and its underlying biological mechanisms of action. I am also investigating a novel drug carrier known as mesoporous silica nanoparticle that can be loaded with chalcone-based compounds to deliver to a 3D colon cancer tissue model. My research is investigating the mode of action of these chalcone-based compounds as they have great potential to be used for their anti-cancer activities. The usefulness of these compounds to be delivered as prodrugs means that these are only activated into active anti-cancer drugs by some proteins/enzymes only found in the 3D colon cancer model and allows scientifically reliable results to be obtained from 3D models. In addition, I am investigating the cellular uptake, intracellular distribution and toxicity of the nanocarrier itself to circumvent any collateral toxicity in the form of cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, or immunotoxicity. My research contributes to 'Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3)' by developing safe nano-based drug delivery carriers and improving health outcomes.
Dr Young's research interests lie in the molecular mechanisms of cellular pathology and the identification of novel molecular targets for therapeutic development in various human disorders. Dr Young's recent work on wound healing, supported by VentureVersity and Innovate UK, has led to the creation of a DMU spin out, Chromar Research and Development Ltd, for the customisation and commercialisation of a novel wet-adhesion platform technology for wound care, for application in humans and animals.