Research based on circulating tumour cells (CTCs) and circulating tumour- and free- DNA (ctDNA, cfDNA) has generated much interest, opening the potential of liquid biopsies, as an -non-invasive- alternative to conventional tissue biopsies; thus allowing a better routine patient monitoring, and robust genetic characterisation of the cancer. The concept of tumour and cancer profiling from liquid biopsies is an exciting field, opening the potential to solve many issues currently surrounding cancer diagnosis/prognosis and treatment. At CBCEL we have teamed up with numerous hospitals nationally and internationally, to study the potential clinical benefits of liquid biopsies.
Excess body fat increases the risk of a number of cancers. Work led by Prof. Chatterjee has shown that obesity is the biggest risk factor for endometrial cancer. At CBCEL we are studying the effects of adipokines (cytokines secreted from adipose tissue) in health and disease, using in vitro models and neural network algorithms.
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) are chemicals or mixtures that are found in various materials such as pesticides, plastics, industrial chemicals, and personal care products. EDCs have been associated with obesity, diabetes, breast cancer, and altered reproductive function. At CBCEL we are studying the effects of EDCs in human reproductive tissues.
During the pandemic our laboratory has contributed towards the body of research surrounding cell entry mediators of SARS-COV-2. We have provided a deeper insight into the expression of TMPRSS2, TMPRSS4, NRP1, and olfactory receptors in a wide repertoire of human tissues, as well as highlighting a potential link between infectability and EDCs.