Connective tissue and ageing
Skin ageing is the composite of two, simultaneously occurring, processes. All tissues age as a result of the passage of time, a process known as intrinsic ageing. In addition is the effect of our environment, or extrinsic ageing. In skin, while intrinsic ageing is subtle, showing fine wrinkles after the age of approximately 70 years, extrinsic changes are more profound and result in deep wrinkles and profound loss of elasticity.
Of particular interst are the changes observed in the elastic fibre networks in both intrinsically and extrinsically aged human skin. We are employing biochemical and microscopical techniques to further characterise alterations in the elastic fibre component of the dermal extracellular matrix, and the underlying mechanism, in aged and photoaged skin.
Further information
- Ageing and photoageing
- Biomechanics of matrix components
- Nuclear hormone receptors
- Systemic sclerosis
- Microvasculature imaging
Principal investigators and collaborators
| Name | Job title | Email address |
|---|---|---|
| Professor Christopher Griffiths | Professor of Dermatology and Head of Research School of Translational Medicine | christopher.griffiths@manchester.ac.uk |
| Dr Ariane Herrick | Reader in Rheumatology and Consultant Rheumatologist | ariane.herrick@manchester.ac.uk |
| Dr Rachel Watson | Honorary Senior Lecturer in Dermatological Sciences | rachel.watson@manchester.ac.uk |
| Dr Andrea Murray | Postdoctoral Research Associate, Stepping Stone Award Holder | andrea.murray@manchester.ac.uk |
| Dr Michael Sherratt | Research Fellow | michael.j.sherratt@manchester.ac.uk |
