User:Koskal09

School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences Research Areas (University of Brighton)

1. BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS

Introduction and background

The Biomedical Materials Research Group focuses on the development of medical biomaterials which will provide improved quality of life especially in the aged population, reducing the costs of primary healthcare. Interfacial phenomena occurring at the interface between indwelling materials and the host environment are fundamental to the design of surface coatings and bulk materials for a wide range of clinical applications. The group applies a multidisciplinary approach to the fields of ophthalmic, orthopaedic and cardiovascular biomedical materials, adsorbent-based technologies and interfacial bioengineering. All the research programmes involve close collaboration with clinical, academic and industrial partners. These partnerships provide the research group with (i) clinical guidance, (ii) the most appropriate multidisciplinary teams to address the clinical problems and (iii) routes to commercial exploitation and market.

Cardiovascular Biomaterials

The use of endovascular stents in the last decade has led to improved clinical outcomes in the treatment of coronary heart disease. Despite these successes, restenosis (the post-operative secondary blockage of the artery) remains a problem. To address this problem, the group is investigating a range of strategies to improve the performance of materials employed in stent fabrication. This includes an investigation into the use of inorganic and polymer coatings as a means of improving biocompatibility and reduce postoperative clinical complications.

Biofilm control

In collaboration with the Microbiology Group we study factors controlling bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation on medical devices. This has included the development of models for assessing bacterial adhesion to ophthalmic, urological and intrauterine contraceptive devices, catheters, stents and orthopaedic pins and investigations into the formulation factors affecting bacterial adhesion to contact lenses and urological catheters. This research has led to the development of novel approaches to reduce biofilm formation through surface modification and antimicrobial drug delivery systems.

Members

• Prof Graham Davies
• Dr Stuart James
• Prof Sergey Mikhalovsky
• Dr Gary Phillips
• Dr Matteo Santin

2. DISEASE PROCESSES

Introduction and Background

The Disease Processes Research Group seeks to understand the fundamental processes that underlie particular diseases and the success of their treatment. The aim of these studies is identify opportunities for novel treatments of disease and to modify the current practice to improve treatment outcomes. The group utilises a wide range of cellular and molecular approaches as well as novel questionnaire techniques to achieve these aims.

Diabetes research

The group uses both in vitro and in vivo models to study the aetiology and pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus. Cytokine-induced and free radical-mediated beta-cell cytotoxicity and associated DNA damage are implicated in both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes and are under investigation in isolated islets of Langerhans and insulin-secreting cell lines. Other areas of investigation include; studies into the effect of exercise in Type 2 diabetes and potentiating non insulin-mediated glucose uptake, cardiac stent-induced restenosis in diabetes, polymer encapsulation of islets and glucotoxicity and cell death (apoptosis) in an in vitro islet model.

Human Studies

On-going research is investigating the role of angiotensin as a neurotransmitter and its role in the control of behaviour, mood and cognition. Human studies are focussing on potential cognitive-enhancing effects of angiotensin antagonists and on angiotensin-related genes and their association with depressive illness. Another area of research includes studies on the psychopharmacological processes involved in addiction. These are currently focused on the effects of alcohol and nicotine on human behaviour. Also, an area of interest centres on understanding how inbreeding and population substructure affect genetic disorders in the human population, in addition to the influence of these factors on forensic identification.

Epithelial research

As part of the research into epithelial cell function there is an active group investigating airway epithelial function in health and disease. These studies focus on the development and use of novel airway epithelial cell models to investigate the processes and regulation of mucociliary function and the role that these mechanisms play in diseases such as cystic fibrosis, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Research interest also lies in the activity of bacterial pore forming toxins using electrophysiological techniques, particularly in the mechanisms of ion and water movement across intestinal epithelia and its role in diarrhoea.

Novel interventions against ischemic acute renal failure

Members of this group are also involved in exploring the pathophysiology of renal failure and disease, with a particular interest in the mechanisms underlying the development of acute and chronic renal failure.

Gerontology Research

Ageing research investigates the mechanisms that cause ageing in both neuronal and mitotic cells. The group is using genomics and short interfering RNA technology to investigate the causes of the rare human accelerated ageing disease Werners syndrome. A joint genomics-based programme with the University of Wales College of Medicine aims to identify the genes involved in the control of cellular lifespan. Senescent cells have an altered phenotype, with dramatically altered gene expression. Increasing numbers of senescent cells are found in vivo with organismal age.

In-vitro evaluation New Chemical Entities

Diverse in-vitro models are used by this group to establish the mode of action of New Chemical Entities. Previous successes include compound that exhibit ACE activity and novel vasodilators.

Ion Channels and Transmembrane Transport

Molecules which mimic the sodium selective filter in ion channels have been synthesised and are being evaluated using patch clamp techniques. Key successes of this group include reviews of the sodium filter model in Chemistry in Britain and New Scientist.

Members

• Dr Jimi Adu
• Dr Anne Jackson
• Dr Marcus Allen
• Dr Katrin Jennert-Burston
• Prof Adrian Bone
• Dr Mike Lethem
• Dr Charley Chatterjee
• Dr Jon Mabley
• Dr Jim Cunningham
• Dr Andy Overall
• Dr Richard Faragher
• Dr Mark Yeoman
• Dr Paul Gard
• Prof Irene Green
• Dr Simon Hardy
• Dr Moira Harrison
• Dr Matt Ingram

3. MICROBIOLOGY

Introduction & Background

The focus of the work within this group is on applied microbiology, in particular, in areas of clinical, veterinary and industrial relevance. The group seeks to address emerging issues such as phage therapies and the appearance of widespread antibiotic resistance, while consolidating areas of existing expertise in biomedical implant infections and the mode of action of, and resistance to, biocidal agents. The recent commissioning of a containment-level 3 microbiology facility within the School allows the group to extend its research to study micro-organisms such as verotoxigenic Escherichia coli and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Mode of action and use of antimicrobial agents

Current hygiene practices demand much of available antibacterial preservatives, antiseptics and disinfectants. Most of these biocidal agents have been in use for many years but very little is known about their precise mechanism of action. Our work focuses on improving our understanding of microbial sensitivity to these agents and in their enhancement of action by formulation and through the development of synergistic combinations. This has become of particular importance as the cost of bringing new efficacious environmentally-acceptable products to market escalates.

Preservation of healthcare formulations

The possible risk of transmission of infection from products to patient demands careful management. This requires the development of effective preservation and disinfection systems, frequently drawing upon an array of toxicologically-acceptable agents. Our work concentrates on enhancing the efficacy of antimicrobial compounds in complex formulated systems. These include: antacid preparations, ophthalmic products, and surface disinfectants. Close collaboration with industry and the hospital community ensures a realistic link between laboratory and in use conditions.

The role of bacterial adhesion in the pathogenesis of device-related infections

A major risk associated with implanted medical devices is the emergence of intransigent microbial infection. The group has a long-standing interest in microbial biofilms, the principal form by which bacteria attach to medical devices and resist antimicrobial treatments.

Members

• Prof Geoff Hanlon
• Dr Norman Hodges
• Dr George Olivier
• Dr Lara Barnes

4. MOLECULAR MECHANISMS AND DESIGN

Introduction & Background

The group comprises members of several research teams who apply a chemical perspective to fundamental molecular processes that influence the function of biological systems in both health and disease. The operation of this group at the Life Sciences- Chemistry interface produces particularly strong cross-links with research into disease processes.

Free Radical Damage

Free radicals, such as nitric oxide and superoxide, are reactive molecules that may cause damage to a number of organs and to DNA. Researchers are investigating the causes and effects of free radical damage as well as ways to reduce the damage. We have a particular interest in understanding the mechanism of free radical production by UV light and Fenton chemistry. Suppression of free radical damage is being investigated using small molecule catalytic antioxidants and targeted antioxidant chelators. Studies of free radical damage with significant clinical importance are also being undertaken.

Catalytic Antibodies

Catalytic antibody research involves the design and synthesis of transition state analogues used to raise designer biological catalysts for applications that include treatment of drug addiction. Current work has been expanded to include the catalysis of amide hydrolysis. This is technically challenging, however, a successful outcome will enable therapeutic intervention in the action of hormones and other key biological molecules.

Drug Delivery

Drug delivery work involves both the synthesis of new chemical entities with enhanced delivery profile also the manipulation of formulations Examples of current work are: Drug release profiles from hydrophilic/hydrophobic matrices and the synthesis of novel pro-drug for transdermal absorption.

Molecular Targeting & Polymer Toxicology

Research into the rational delivery of pharmaceutical and therapeutic agents involves the identification of precise targets (cells and receptors) related to specific clinical conditions and choice of the appropriate formulation to achieve the required responses while minimizing side effects. This world-renowned group is investigating all aspects of innovative advanced drug delivery and gene-transfer systems; from design and development to performance improvement and technology assessment. These include particle drug carrier systems as well as advanced controlled-release dosage forms. Our research also expands on the synthesis of molecular probes for determination of primary and secondary metabolic pathways leading to flexible systems for the generation of new drugs and delivery systems.

Colloidal Systems Research

Investigation of many-molecule-assemblies, medicinal nanotechnology and study of formulated commercial preparations such as pharmaceutical emulsions, drug products for injection and industrial dispersions. Additional work involves characterisation of polymer adsorption and possibilities for making chemically-engineered molecular scaffolds. These have many and vital unique uses, for example in bioimplants, specific sensor surfaces, drug delivery systems, new pharmaceuticals and food materials, smart coatings and structures. Many activities are based on aqueous disersions, such as foams and lipid monolayers. These can be used to model cell membrane function and for more fundamental purposes.

Analytical Sciences

Development of analytical procedures of pharmaceutical interest. Incorporating the use of various instrumental techniques.

Members

• Dr Peter Cragg
• Dr Lizzy Ostler
• Dr Roy Daisley
• Dr Ken Rutt
• Dr Gerry Gallacher
• Dr Dipak Sarker
• Dr Jacqueline Elsom
• Dr Hal Sosabowski
• Dr Christy Hunter
• Dr Matt Ingram
• Ms Jannette Langford
• Dr Seyed Moghimi
• Dr George Olivier

5. THERAPEUTICS & MEDICINES USE

Introduction & Background

Academics working in this area of research seek to explore the fundamental processes behind health care, the factors influencing the prescribing and adherence to medicines as well as the competency of practitioners to meet the challenges of health care provision.

Social Pharmacy

Social Pharmacy explores the relationships between patient and the health care environment. This group collaborates with the Primary Care Trust (PCT), community groups and the Community University Partnership Project (CUPP). Success in this group includes the development of a new health psychology model to describe the relationship between children’s adherence to medication and parents’ beliefs. Current work includes factors that influence dispensing errors; research in aspects of complementary/alternative therapies and investigating factors which influence the outcome of community based experiential visits (funded by RPSGB).

Medicines Use

This embraces two main strands of research which evaluate the quality of drug use in specific therapeutic areas (for example HIV, mental health and care of the elderly) and explores aspects of behavioural medicine in relation to patient adherence to their prescribed medication. Students will be required to work in either the clinical environment at the local health care trust or alongside researchers in the behavioural medicines unit.

Education

Research in this area involves developing methods of assessing the clinical competence of pharmacists as well as evaluating the consultation skills of practitioners. Members of this group are currently working as part of a South of England research team developing and testing a competency framework for evaluating the practice of hospital pharmacists – from junior grades through to consultant level practitioners. An additional strand of work examines the ability of students to calculate dosing regimens inline with a host of patient specific criteria in order to determine more appropriate teaching methods.

Members

• Prof Graham Davis
• Dr Angela MacAdam
• Mr Michael Pettit
• Dr Paul Gard
• Dr Stewart Glaspole
• Mr Mike Ellis-Martin
• Miss Sam Haigh
• Mr John Greene
• Dr Matthew Ingram

6. BUSINESS STUDIES

Business studies projects are research projects which always involve gathering primary data via various research instruments on a topic decided between the supervisor and student, but normally based on a business research idea generated by the student.

Members

• Dr M.H. Sosabowski

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