Interstitial lung disease and lung transplantation
University Hospital of South Manchester (UHSM) has the regional centre for interstitial lung disease, with over 200 patients under regular follow-up. UHSM is one of only four lung transplant units in the UK, with 110 patients currently under follow-up. We are a multi disciplinary research group studying a broad range of topics including;
Immunologic targets in allograft rejection
We are investigating how immune activation occurs following transplantation. We have identified potential endogenous (donor derived) molecules which provide stimulatory signals to innate immune cells and may play a major role in allorecognition (and therefore contribute to graft rejection). We are also studying the mechanisms behind immunologic tolerance and are attempting to understand which signals are required for the movement of tolerising cells to a specific location.
Predicting graft rejection
We are validating novel systemic peripheral markers for graft rejection. We are about to take these studies into formal clinical trials and are in the process of developing a “home Test” kit, so patients can routinely monitor rejection.
Ex-vivo lung evaluation
We are studying the physiology and Immunology behind organ recovery following the ex-vivo evaluation. The transplant research team are pioneering this technique which allows the surgeon to significantly 'recondition' marginal/damaged donor lungs so they can be used for transplantation. We predict this technique may increase the number of annual lung transplant procedures by approximately 100. We are also attempting to describe how the ex-vivo system improves donor tissue on a cellular/subcellular level.
