The Clinical Trials Section is NIHR supported, conducting national and international complex, multi-centre clinical trials in cancer (breast, haematological and colorectal), stroke, mental health, cardiovascular disease and wounds. The Section provides multi-disciplinary academic leadership and has a track record in conducting both complex clinical trials and related methodological research including quality of life measurement and informs the academic development of this specialised field of clinical research.
The aims of the Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics focus on the contribution of genes to the incidence of disease in the general population and the joint effects of genes and environment. Particular research interests involve the study of melanoma (for which the Section acts as the Co-ordinating centre for Genomel, www.genomel.org), colorectal neoplasia, testicular cancer and early onset cardiovascular disease plus the development of statistical methods for the analysis of complex datasets.
The research efforts of the different research groups in the Section of Experimental Haematology concentrate on molecular events controlling decisions for cell lineage commitment and cell differentiation during normal blood cell development. This is complemented by studies on the deregulation of these events in cancers of the blood cell system (leukaemias) which are conducted in collaborations between basic and clinical scientists.
The Section of Experimental Oncology has 3 groups that focus on Molecular Genetics, Paediatric and Adolescent Oncology, Radiobiology and Cell Biology. Our research includes basic laboratory studies to increase understanding of cancer biology, leading to the identification of molecular markers that can be utilised as tools to predict and monitor patient response, and targets for the development of novel therapeutics.
The Section of Genetics works on the identification of genes involved in human inherited disease, and on the elucidation of disease mechanisms through genetic approaches. We also work closely with colleagues in the NHS Regional Genetics Service and translate our research findings rapidly into clinical practice.
The Section is undertaking research into the genetics of coeliac disease, gastrointestinal ion channel physiology, intra-abdominal robotic surgery, the genetics of malignant hyperthermia and peri-operative risk assessment.
The Section of Molecular Gastroenterology is conducting basic and translational research into the molecular pathogenesis and treatment of gastrointestinal cancer.
The Section of Musculoskeletal Disease undertakes a systematic approach to inflammatory arthritis; phenotyping patients using imaging, genetics, biomarkers and signalling pathways to identify patients at important stages of disease including pre-clinical disease remission and when patients switch from TNF responsive to partial TNF resistant. In addition mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) work is proceeding with the aim of establishing feasible protocols for using MSCs for clinical use.
The Section of Oncology and Clinical Research has six groups focusing on biotherapy and biomarkers for cancer, psychosocial oncology, early clinical trials in cancer and a broad portfolio of national clinical trials and studies through coordination of the UK Clinical Research Networks.
Research in the Section of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience aims to determine the cause of inherited neurological degeneration in various neurological disorders, and in so doing to gain insights into the processes of neurogenesis, neuronal homeostasis and function. Ultimately it is hoped that this approach will contribute to the search for cures for both rare and common inherited human diseases.
The Section of Pathology & Tumour Biology undertake translational research aimed at improving clinical outcomes and enhancing our understanding of disease. Areas of special interest are gastrointestinal, breast and head and neck cancer and early pregnancy. Novel methods used at present are digital pathology together with molecular and protein technologies.
More details to follow