Project Code
MRCIIAR26Br Hammond
Project Type
Wet lab
Research Theme
Infection, Immunity, Antimicrobial Resistance and Repair
Project Summary Download
Summary
There is a growing awareness that micro- and nanoplastics, which are increasingly prevalent in our environment, pose risks to human health. This project focuses on the role of microplastics on the innate immune system; particularly neutrophils, which are the body’s first line of defense and which are known to engulf microplastics. Our team has data showing that neutrophils change their behaviour when exposed to microplastics. We have also identified a novel pro-reparative role for neurophils in stabilising fractures. In this project we aim to identify how microplastics impact skeletal health in development, injury and regeneration using zebrafish as a model.
Lead Supervisor
Professor Chrissy Hammond
Lead Supervisor Email
University Affiliation
Bristol