Cellular and developmental systems
This domain is concerned with processes that are fundamental to our understanding of life.
We seek to understand how basic cell and developmental biology processes such as cell differentiation, cell division and cell movements are achieved.
We also look at how they are affected by cell-cell signalling and cell matrix interactions (Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research), and how they are coordinated in space and time to make and maintain a complex multicellular organism.
In most, if not all cases, disease is caused by cellular dysfunction. Consequently, our ability to treat disease has, and will continue to be, greatly enhanced by understanding how alterations affect cells, their behaviour and their interactions.
Investigating the fundamental mechanisms underlying normal cell function and development offers a route to understand how their failure can lead to disease and to discover novel therapeutic strategies for regeneration.
Similarly, the study of the cellular basis of human disease can provide fundamental insights into the principles of cellular and developmental systems.
Research strengths
Within the domain we have identified the following areas of research strength.
Additionally, the Faculty's research on biological timing is also a key area of activity.
Cell dynamics
Virtually all cellular functions – including cell division, cell migration, intracellular trafficking, adhesion, and signalling – are dependent on cytoskeletal and membrane dynamics. This means the machineries regulating the cytoskeleton and membranes are closely linked to numerous diseases including developmental disorders, cancer and neurodegeneration.
Cell matrix biology
Matrix is essential for multicellular life. It surrounds and supports cells and accounts for 70% of our body mass. By understanding the physical, chemical, and temporal crosstalk between cells and matrix we will:
- generate profound insights into the mechanisms that underpin tissue assembly and function, vertebrate development, and healthy ageing;
- identify why tissue failure is a major factor in many chronic diseases;
- identify targets for disease intervention.
Discover more at our Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell-Matrix Research.
Gene expression, chromatin and signalling
Changes in gene expression underlie development, disease and evolution. Gene expression is a complex and dynamic process, controlled by a variety of signals across space and time, giving rise to intricate and changing expression patterns.
Our overall aim is to understand the molecular basis to these events and their significance in the context of organismal homeostasis, development and disease. We are studying how gene transcription is initiated and terminated, and how post-transcriptional mechanisms impact on this.
Protein and RNA fate
While altered patterns of gene transcription correlate with the potential to re-programme cell fate it is also clear that the control of RNA stability and protein synthesis and turnover are fundamental to normal cell function.
The efficacy of mechanisms that regulate RNA and protein metabolism and quality control are critical determinants of cell fate. Knowledge of these systems is relevant in biotechnology, ageing and disease.
Regenerative medicine
Regenerative medicine builds upon our understanding of the basic mechanisms in cell and developmental biology with the ultimate aim of translating this knowledge to improve the repair, replacement or regeneration of damaged tissues and organs.
Discover more at the Manchester Regenerative Medicine Network.