Research
The main focus of the Division's research activities is on fundamental molecular and cellular aspects of human disease. Our research is grouped around the following core themes:
- Cancer Biology
- Neurodegenerative Disease
- Microbiology
- Cell Biology and Biochemistry
Cancer Biology
Research groups at Lancaster are investigating a number of different aspects of the molecular and cellular biology of cancer including: cellular effects of exposure to carcinogens and ultraviolet light, DNA repair mechanisms, cell cycle control, and the molecular events behind leukaemia.
Group Leaders:
Neurodegenerative Disease
Progressive degeneration of the nervous system is a feature of a number of human diseases characterised by impaired movement or cognition. Researchers in the Division are studying the underlying processes that lead to brain dysfunction and degeneration in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and hydrocephalus.
Group Leaders:
Microbiology
The microbiological research activities of the Division are aimed at a better understanding of the cell biology of protozoan parasites and yeast. In addition to its application to medical parasitology our work also exploits microorganisms as models for understanding human cellular function. The Unit works in close collaboration with microbiologists in the Lancaster Environment Centre.
Group Leaders:
Cell Biology and Biochemistry
The Division includes a number of research groups whose work is focused on applying biochemical and structural techniques to understanding cellular function at its fundamental level. Particular research interests include corneal transparency and dysfunction, proteoglycan structure and function and the biochemical and genetic characterisation of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE).