Molly Bower

• CDT Doctoral Researcher (Aligned) Supervisor: Prof Simi Al
• Email: m.bower2@newcastle.ac.uk
• Project title: Attenuation of damage to endothelium in transplanted heart by targeting the IL-6 / S1P signalling axis

Institution: Newcastle University

Project summary: My PhD involves developing an in vitro model of ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) to vascular endothelium. This model will be used to evaluate the targeting of the IL-6 and S1PR1 signalling pathways as a potential therapeutic strategy to protect vascular endothelial barrier integrity. By improving endothelial barrier integrity, the aim is to reduce the level of IRI to donor hearts during transplantation and, subsequently, to decrease the incidence of primary graft dysfunction.