The MSc in Regenerative Medicine is hosted by the Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research at the Blizard Institute, part of Queen Mary University of London's Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry.
The Centre is one of the largest cutaneous research centres in Europe. It hosts groups of world-class academics and research-active staff, conducting research into a wide range of topics from aging and senescence to novel treatments for rare genetic cellular or dermatological conditions.
Dr John Connelly and Dr Kristin Braun were involved in research aiming to investigate the role of type VI collagen in the assembly of the extracellular matrix (ECM) by human dermal fibroblasts and evaluate the subsequent impact on cell behaviour. Their research demonstrated that type VI collagen mediates ECM architecture and composition and affects fibroblast morphology and migration. The results also suggested that type VI collagen may play an important role in wound repair. Drs Connelly and Braun suggested that Type VI collagen could be a potential therapeutic target for tissue repair: Delivery of exogenous type VI collagen may be advantageous for stimulating matrix deposition, whereas inhibiting its expression may be desirable for reducing fibrosis and scar formation. Thus, tuning the levels of type VI collagen within the tissue could represent an approach to modulating tissue regeneration.
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Recent research from Dr Tina Chowdhury and her team identified a new bioengineering approach to fix fetal membranes. The study, published in the journal Prenatal Diagnosis, found that molecules, known as peptide amphiphiles (PAs) self-assemble to form a ‘plug’ that seals holes within the fetal membranes, and could potentially help repair any damage. The researchers established a fetal membrane defect model, which mimics the creation of a defect site within the fetal membrane as a result of keyhole surgery. The research team found that PAs spontaneously assembled together seconds after coming into contact with the human amniotic fluid. Within two minutes, a dense mesh of fibres formed a plug, which sealed the hole created at the injection site after 24 hours.
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Academics who teach on the programme have been actively involved in supporting COVID-19 research.
Professor Aine McKnight, who delivers some immunology lectures on the programme, has worked with her team and colleagues from other institutions to understand the immunological aspects of the disease. At the start of the pandemic, she oversaw the setup of COVID-19 diagnostic studies in record time. She was also involved in research which has shown evidence of lasting antibody and T-cell immunity to SARS-CoV-2 in health care workers who had asymptomatic or mild infection.
Professor John Connelly also teamed up with colleagues in Queen Mary’s School of Engineering and Materials Science, School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science, the Institute of Dentistry and Barts Health NHS Trust to 3D-print new visors for front line staff at The Royal London Hospital.