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Adult migrants in the UK and EU/EEA have worse TB outcomes than non-migrants 16 December 2024
New research published today in the European Respiratory Journal found that adult migrants in the UK and EU/EEA fare worse on a range of TB outcomes than non-migrants in those countries.
CATAPULT trial shows treatment of latent TB in migrants within primary care safe and effective 26 November 2024
A recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, Barts Health NHS Trust and in close collaboration with Newham Integrated Care Board has shown that the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection in recent migrants to the UK can be safely and effectively managed within primary care when compared to specialist secondary care services at lower cost.
MB PhD student profile: Rizwan Hameed 20 November 2024
Rizwan Hameed is a Queen Mary MBBS student, currently studying on the MB PhD programme undertaking a research project to gain a PhD. The three-year research degree aims to nurture the development of highly skilled, independent clinical research scientists who can contribute to medical research as part of their clinical career. Rizwan discusses his PhD topic, his experience of the programme so far, and his plans for the future.
Dr Paul Vulliamy receives Wellcome Trust Early Career Award 31 October 2024
Congratulations to Dr Paul Vulliamy, Clinical Senior Lecturer in Trauma Sciences and Consultant Trauma Surgeon, who received a Wellcome Trust Early Career Award in August for his project titled The Role of Platelets in Trauma-Induced Organ Failure.
Blizard alumna receives BCAM Quality Research Award in aesthetic practice 9 October 2024
Dr Juanita Parnis has received the second place award in this year's British College of Aesthetic Medicine’s (BCAM) Quality Research Award for her research on hyperbaric oxygen therapy in aesthetic practice.
Dr Jordi Lopez-Tremoleda awarded title of ECLAM Diplomate 9 October 2024
Dr Jordi Lopez-Tremoleda, the University Named Veterinary Surgeon and Reader in Animal Science and Welfare, has been awarded the title of ‘Diplomate of the European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine’.
Becky Platt's account on her work with children in Gaza 19 August 2024
“The level of human suffering was absolutely mind blowing”: A Paediatric Nurse's account on the Devastating Impact of War on Children in Gaza – by Becky Platt
Professor Chloe Orkin appointed new Dean for Healthcare Transformation 12 August 2024
Queen Mary University of London is delighted to announce that Professor Chloe Orkin has been appointed as the new Dean for Healthcare Transformation for the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry.
Professor Chloe Orkin receives MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours 14 June 2024
Queen Mary University of London is delighted to congratulate Professor Chloe Orkin, who has been recognised with an MBE for services to NHS in the 2024 King’s Birthday Honours list.
Weight-bearing after ankle fracture surgery may not lead to worse outcomes 5 June 2024
A new paper by Chris Bretherton from Barts Bone & Joint Health, and published today in The Lancet, shows that weight-bearing after ankle fracture surgery may not lead to worse outcomes for patients, and could help people return to normal activities sooner.
PhD students showcase projects at Graduate Studies Day 31 May 2024
The Blizard Institute held its annual Graduate Studies Day on Wednesday 29 May.
Research led by Queen Mary suggests that people with more copies of ribosomal DNA have higher risks of developing disease 14 May 2024
Analysis of previously unstudied areas of the genomes of 500,000 people indicates that individuals who have more copies of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) are more likely to develop inflammation and diseases during their lifetimes.
Build, test, repeat: meet the scientist-turned-entrepreneur by accident 8 May 2024
Dr Madusha Peiris, Senior Lecturer in Enteric Neurobiology at Queen Mary University of London and founder of spinout company Enterika, was recently interviewed for City AM's Founder's Spotlight
Queen Mary partners with London Medical Exchange to expand its postgraduate education in China 12 April 2024
On Sunday, 24 March, Queen Mary University of London formally signed an agreement with the London Medical Exchange (LME) to bring postgraduate medical education to healthcare professionals across China.
Dr Laura Green recognised for outstanding work in blood transfusion 26 March 2024
Dr Laura Green from the Centre for Trauma Sciences at the Blizard Institute has been nominated for the Kenneth Goldsmith Award 2024 by the British Blood Transfusion Society (BBTS) in recognition of her outstanding contribution transfusion research and practices.
Nutrient-based alternative to weight-loss drugs enters next stage of testing 15 March 2024
The novel pill is drug-free and more affordable that existing products.
Adaptive Decisions Lab joins Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma 8 March 2024
Professor Abhi Banerjee and his Lab have joined the Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma at the Blizard Institute. Abhi is PI of the Adaptive Decisions Lab and a Professor of Neuroscience. His lab is currently working on the flexibility of learning, decision-making and its dysfunctions in neurological disorders.
Queen Mary research team heads discovery of a new method to stop the growth of cancer cells 1 March 2024
Research led by Professor Cleo Bishop from Queen Mary's Blizard Institute has found a way to put certain types of cancer cell to 'sleep', making them vulnerable to drug treatments.
Blizard colleagues' success at FMD Staff Awards 2024 1 March 2024
Congratulations to Dr Marie Spreckley, Carlos De Oliveira, Khalid Rouas and Professor Chloe Orkin, who all received awards at this year’s FMD Staff Awards
ReGen group joins Barts Bone & Joint Health 23 February 2024
This week, the ReGen group led by Professor Francesco Dell’Accio joins Barts Bone & Joint Health, and have moved their labs to the Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma in the Blizard Institute. They remain part of the William Harvey Research Institute, and will continue their work on developing pharmacological interventions to restore cartilage integrity and to reduce pain in osteoarthritis and other cartilage defects.
Blizard colleagues recognised at Queen Mary's Staff Apprenticeship Awards 9 February 2024
Jamie Roberts, Teaching Laboratory Technician, won a 2024 Staff Apprentice Recognition Award, while his mentor, Claire Cox, Principal Laboratory Manager, was selected as ‘highly commended’ in the ‘Mentor Recognition’ category.
Dr Cara Croft features in Telegraph article highlighting her dementia research 17 January 2024
Dr Croft, a senior lecturer in neuroscience, explains how she is trying to make a difference by finding a way to prevent the disease.
PhD students showcase projects at Graduate Studies Day 22 December 2023
The Blizard Institute held its annual Graduate Studies Day on Monday 11 December.
Queen Mary’s Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry receives Athena Swan Gold Award 15 December 2023
Queen Mary University of London’s Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry (FMD) has received an Athena Gold Swan Award, recognising its significant progression and achievements in gender equality in medicine. The FMD is one of seven faculties in the UK to receive a Gold Award.
Vitamin D supplements do not prevent bone fractures in children 5 December 2023
A major clinical trial led by Queen Mary University of London and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has found that vitamin D supplements do not increase bone strength or prevent bone fractures in children with vitamin D deficiency.
Professor Edel O’Toole awarded triennial Moxon Medal by Royal College of Physicians 28 November 2023
Professor O'Toole is the first woman to receive the medal since it's inception in 1891.
Bone & Joint Health welcomes first physiotherapist awarded UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship 27 October 2023
The Barts Bone & Joint Health group are delighted to announce that Katie Sheehan, our very first Professor of Rehabilitation, will be joining Queen Mary on Wednesday 1 November.
Blog: Understanding EBS skin and ways to strengthen it 25 October 2023
This blog article first appeared on the DEBRA UK website. DEBRA is a national charity and patient support organisation for people living with the rare, extremely painful, genetic skin blistering condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB) also known as ‘Butterfly Skin’. To view the original article, please visit the DEBRA blog page.
Not all major trauma patients benefit from receiving additional blood-clotting factors when treating blood loss 13 October 2023
Major blood loss is experienced by many severely injured patients, and it contributes to the death of more than half of the 4.4 million people who die from trauma every year across the world. It is the most common preventable cause of death in the trauma population.
Scientists discover ‘long colds’ may exist, as well as long Covid 6 October 2023
A new study from Queen Mary University of London, published in The Lancet’s EClinicalMedicine, has found that people may experience long-term symptoms —or ‘long colds’—after acute respiratory infections that test negative for COVID-19.
Blizard laboratories achieve Bronze for sustainability 3 October 2023
LEAF is a standard set up by University College London (UCL) to improve the sustainability and efficiency of laboratories.
New study shows effectiveness of mpox vaccine 5 September 2023
A new international study led by Queen Mary University of London has shown mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) infections to be less severe among those who are vaccinated or had a previous infection in 2022, underlining the importance and effectiveness of vaccination.
New genes and natural toxins offer hope for cancer patients unresponsive to chemotherapy 4 September 2023
Scientists from Queen Mary University of London have discovered two new genes that cause head and neck cancer patients to be resistant to chemotherapy, and that silencing either gene can make cancer cells previously unresponsive to chemotherapy subsequently respond to it.
Dr Adrian Biddle recognised at Animal Free Research UK Pioneer and Spotlight Awards 29 August 2023
Dr Adrian Biddle has been awarded the inaugural Outstanding Scientist 2023 at the awards which celebrate the next generation of future animal free researchers and innovators in science and medicine.
In2ScienceUK Summer Programme infuses Year 12s with enthusiasm for careers in STEM 23 August 2023
During the week of 7 August, Dr Tania Maffucci and her team led Year 12s in a fantastic summer course to give them a valuable insight and practical taster of what working in a STEM career could be like.
Researchers secure £3m NIHR funding for new blood clot prevention trial 15 August 2023
The research group Barts Bone & Joint Health, comprising researchers and clinicians from Queen Mary University of London, Barts Health NHS Trust, and other partner institutions has secured £3 million in funding from NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research) to deliver the UKs largest trial in thromboprophylaxis.
Scientists join forces to transform treatments for childhood brain tumours 11 July 2023
Experts at Queen Mary University of London, University College London (UCL), and Great Ormond Street Hospital are joining forces with researchers in Germany to develop pioneering treatments for children diagnosed with brain tumours, following major new funding from the UK’s leading brain tumour charity.
MBBS and intercalating MSc Gastroenterology student wins prestigious national award 7 July 2023
A fourth-year medical student at the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry has gained a top prize in the prestigious 2023 Dr Falk-Pharma/Guts UK Charity national awards.
Centre of the Cell’s STEM Pod undergoes state-of-the-art computer and film technology refurbishment 28 June 2023
An extensive £438,000 refurbishment of STEM Pod, Centre of the Cell’s immersive digital interactive experience, is now complete – with more developments to come later this year.
New study shines light on beneficial and pathogenic elements of ‘genomic dark matter’ 19 June 2023
A new study published in Cell Reports reveals certain elements of ‘genomic dark matter’ known as transposable elements as either beneficial or harmful to our health, exploring why this is and paving the way for future understanding of how to combat malignant cancers and other human diseases.
Queen Mary academic awarded in King’s Birthday Honours List 17 June 2023
Queen Mary University of London Professor of Haemostasis and Thrombosis, Professor John Pasi, has been awarded an MBE in The King’s Birthday Honours List 2023.
Jumping genes which can lead to rare syndrome in children identified 13 June 2023
A new family of DNA elements which control the activation of certain genes to cause a rare disease known as 'MSL3 syndrome’ in children has been identified.
Blizard Institute colleagues celebrated at the inaugural Research and Innovation Awards 31 May 2023
Queen Mary University of London held its first Research and Innovation Awards on Thursday 25 May, to recognise the excellent people and teams that make creative, dynamic, and world-class research and innovation possible at the University.
Dr Adrian Biddle wins PGR Supervisor of the Year award 5 May 2023
Congratulations to Dr Adrian Biddle on winning Queen Mary Students' Union's (QMSU) PGR Supervisor of the Year award at this year's Education Awards.
Genes & Health expands to mental health and pregnancy research with £2 million Medical Research Council award 25 April 2023
Genes & Health, a pioneering genetic research programme that aims to improve health for British Bangladeshi and British Pakistani communities, has started 2023 celebrating new milestones.
Blizard Institute researchers take innovative approach to tackling glioblastoma 21 March 2023
Dr Claire Vinel in Professor Silvia Marino's Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the Blizard Institute will take a novel approach to studying brain tumours by investigating communication between glioblastomas and muscles in the body.
Blizard Education Administrators win Education Excellence Award 21 March 2023
Many congratulations to Sam, Becky, Krys, Ettore, Louise, Amy and Priti for receiving the award in recognition of their dedication to Blizard education.
Professor Andrew Prendergast to give Big Question Lecture: How can we help all children survive and thrive? 14 March 2023
Why don't children always grow healthily during pregnancy? Can this affect them in later life? Professor Andrew Prendergast will be answering these questions and more in his free Big Question lecture.
Queen Mary University of London and icometrix receive prestigious AI Award 7 March 2023
Queen Mary and icometrix have together been awarded the prestigious AI Award in Health and Care by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
E-scooter riders likely to be more seriously injured than cyclists 1 March 2023
A recent audit of trauma care in England and Wales, involving researchers from the Blizard Institute and published online in the journal Injury Prevention, has found that e-scooter riders are likely to sustain more serious injuries, particularly those of the head, than cyclists after a road traffic collision.
Dr Rabia Topan featured in Channel 4 Series on gut health 1 March 2023
Clinical Research Fellow Dr Rabia Topan was recently featured as the resident gastroenterologist on the Channel 4 series ‘Know Your S**t: Inside Our Guts’, exploring digestive health and the relationship between the brain and the gut.
Clinicians identify severe form of mpox with high mortality in people with advanced HIV 22 February 2023
An international collaboration of clinicians, led by Queen Mary University of London and the Fight Infections Foundation/Hospital Germans Trias of Barcelona, has identified a severe, necrotising form of mpox with a high mortality in immunosuppressed people living with HIV.
Target the microbiome to improve child undernutrition, say researchers 14 February 2023
Research led by Queen Mary University of London suggests that nutritional interventions used to tackle child undernutrition in lower and middle-income countries should target gut microbiome development, rather than just human nutritional needs, to more effectively improve child growth and development.
HRH Princess Beatrice visits Blizard as Patron of the British Skin Foundation 7 February 2023
HRH Princess Beatrice, in her newly appointed role as Patron of the British Skin Foundation, today visited the Blizard Institute at Queen Mary University of London to see first-hand how scientists are tackling the UK's rising skin cancer numbers.
Cochrane review finds that vitamin D does not reduce risk of asthma attacks 7 February 2023
Taking vitamin D supplements does not reduce the risk of asthma attacks in children or adults, according to an updated Cochrane review published today.
New product combining blood and plasma in one bag saves lives, study finds 1 February 2023
A new blood product combining red blood cells and plasma in one bag is associated with a better survival from a penetrating major trauma injury, a new study involving Queen Mary University of London has found.
MS expert Professor Klaus Schmierer featured on new health and wellbeing podcast 5 January 2023
The Blizard Institute's Professor Klaus Schmierer recently featured on a new health and wellbeing podcast to discuss the connection between a healthy lifestyle and good brain health.
Brain Tumour Research Success in 2022 3 January 2023
The Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the Blizard Institute has made significant research breakthroughs in 2022.
Big Question Lecture: How do genes make an ant society? 14 December 2022
Want to find out about the work that goes on in the Wurm lab and learn more about the genetics and evolution of insect societies? Professor Yannick Wurm will be answering these questions and more in his free Big Question lecture.
What is stiff person syndrome? Blizard expert explains the condition 13 December 2022
In an emotional message, Céline Dion recently revealed to her Instagram followers that she has a rare condition called stiff person syndrome. Professor Richard Leslie, Professor of Diabetes and Autoimmunity, explains the condition.
UK Government launches Newborn Genomes Programme 13 December 2022
The UK Government has today (13 December) announced the launch of a Newborn Genomes Programme, a new research study that will explore the effectiveness of using whole genome sequencing to detect rare diseases in newborn babies.
Blizard Institute raises £500 for Save the Children 13 December 2022
Staff and students from the Blizard Institute got together for Christmas Jumper Day on Thursday 8 December to organise a bake sale and donate to a great cause.
Queen Mary University of London acquires first Cell DIVE multiplexed imager for a university outside of North America 30 November 2022
Queen Mary University of London has become the first university outside of North America to acquire a Cell DIVE imager, providing access to the latest technology and ensuring that we remain world-leading in the fast-moving area of single-cell approaches.
Blizard academic leads first study of monkeypox infection in women 18 November 2022
An international collaboration of clinicians, established and led by Professor Chloe Orkin at the Blizard Institute, has published the first case study series of monkeypox infection during the 2022 outbreak in cisgender (cis) and transgender (trans) women and non-binary individuals assigned as female at birth. The study provides new insights to inform the public health response to the ongoing outbreak.
Centre of the Cell’s STEMPod to undergo state-of-the-art computer and film technology refurbishment 16 November 2022
This new investment in our unique learning space will ensure that Centre of the Cell continues to inspire young people in East London and beyond.
Blizard Institute spinout company Enterika Ltd secures funding from Queen Mary Investment Fund 16 November 2022
Queen Mary Innovation, the university’s technology transfer arm, has helped Enterika Ltd secure funding from the Queen Mary Investment Fund (QMIF) – a new fund to help commercialise the university’s world-class research and to support early-stage business spinouts.
Researchers target healthy cells to halt pancreatic cancer invasion 15 November 2022
Dr Abigail Coetzee from the Blizard Institute Blizard is named as co-first author of a paper published in Oncogene. She was involved in the research as part of her PhD at Barts Cancer Institute.
Q&A: A satellite DNA array barcodes chromosome 7 and regulates totipotency via ZFP819 2 November 2022
Dr Helen Rowe from the Centre for Immunobiology discusses her lab's recent article published in Science Advances. The team discovered that a certain satellite DNA barcode not only safeguards genome integrity, but also controls cell fate and reprogramming by promoting exit from totipotency and developmental progression.
Queen Mary researchers named in top 100 female scientists in the UK 26 October 2022
Frances Balkwill, Irene Leigh and Claudia Langenberg have been named in research.com’s top 100 female scientists in the UK.
Her Majesty The Queen, Elizabeth II: 1926-2022 9 September 2022
It is with great sadness that we learn of the death of Her Majesty the Queen. We extend our deepest sympathies to the Royal Family at this very difficult time.
Researchers use Single-Cell RNA-Sequencing to Better Understand Gut Inflammation associated with Malnutrition 1 September 2022
An international collaboration of researchers involving Queen Mary University of London has used single-cell RNA-sequencing to study environmental enteropathy (EE), thought to be a major contributor to malnutrition, to identify potential cellular and molecular targets for treatment and provide a roadmap for future EE intervention studies.
Researchers identify new genetic cause for life-threatening bone marrow failure 10 August 2022
A team of researchers from the Blizard Institute at Queen Mary University of London led by Dr Hemanth Tummala, Dr Amanda Walne and Prof Inderjeet Dokal has identified a new genetic causal mechanism in Dyskeratosis congenita (DC) – a rare and complex haematological condition resulting in the inability of the bone marrow to produce sufficient blood cells.
Researchers identify new genomic regions that influence the severity of COVID-19 disease 9 August 2022
An international collaboration of human geneticists involving researchers at Queen Mary University of London and the Genes & Health study has identified 11 new genomic regions that influence the severity of COVID-19 disease.
New trial shows nasal spray reduces infection of covid-causing virus by 62% 1 August 2022
A new clinical trial led by Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health researchers has shown that the pHOXWELL nasal spray can reduce infection with SARS-CoV-2 - the virus that causes Covid-19 - by 62%. The research was published in the Journal of Clinical Virology.
New clinical symptoms identified in largest international case study series of confirmed monkeypox cases 21 July 2022
An international collaboration of clinicians led by Queen Mary University of London has identified new clinical symptoms in people infected with monkeypox in the largest case study series to date.
Dr Paul Vulliamy awarded Apothecaries’ Prize 2022 15 July 2022
Congratulations to Dr Paul Vulliamy, clinical lecturer in trauma sciences and specialist registrar in general surgery, on being awarded the Apothecaries’ Prize 2022 by The Worshipful Society of Apothecaries.
UK community survey demonstrates overwhelming demand for monkeypox vaccine information and vaccine roll-out 7 July 2022
Interim data from a community-based monkeypox (MPXV) survey demonstrates an overwhelming demand for monkeypox vaccine and vaccine-roll-out, especially amongst those who consider themselves to be at risk-of MPXV.
Interrupting the treatment of vulnerable people on immune-suppressing medicines doubles their antibody response to COVID-19 booster vaccination 28 June 2022
A major clinical trial, involving researchers from Queen Mary University of London and led by the University of Nottingham, has found that by interrupting the treatment of vulnerable people on long-term immune suppressing medicines for two weeks after a COVID-19 booster vaccination, their antibody response to the jab is doubled.
Graduate Studies Day 2022 showcases exciting research from our postgraduate research students 24 June 2022
On Wednesday 22 June, the Blizard Institute held its annual Graduate Studies Day to celebrate the work of our postgraduate research students.
Omicron infection is a poor booster of COVID-19 immunity 14 June 2022
People infected with the Omicron variant show poor immune boosting against future SARS-CoV-2 infection, according to the findings of a study published in the journal Science. The research team, which included researchers from Queen Mary University of London, looked at how the complex patchwork of immunity in the population following vaccination and previous infection influences our future protection against SARS-CoV-2.
Tackling the obesity epidemic with new research on metabolism 13 June 2022
Researchers from Queen Mary have been awarded £2.67 million in funding to conduct innovative research in the field of metabolism.
Funding success for project to improve sex and gender inclusivity in medical research 8 June 2022
Professor Chloe Orkin, President of the Medical Women’s Federation and Clinical Professor of HIV Medicine at the Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London is named as a collaborator on a project led by The George Institute for Global Health (TGI) UK and Imperial College London, which has been awarded funding of £250,000 from the Wellcome Trust to co-produce policy on how sex and gender are considered in medical research in the UK.
Queen Mary’s Deputy Vice Principal (Health) recognised in the Queen’s Birthday Honours 2 June 2022
Professor Joanne Martin, also Director of the Blizard Institute and Professor of Pathology at Queen Mary University of London, has received a CBE for services to the NHS and Medical Education in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Mary Collins appointed as new Director of the Blizard Institute 1 June 2022
Professor Mary Collins, the new Blizard Institute Director, has ambitious plans for expanding our world-leading multidisciplinary research.
Blizard Institute early career researchers host international senescence symposium 2 May 2022
On Friday 29 April, the Blizard Institute hosted the young International Cell Senescence Association (yICSA) Senescence Symposium 2022, organised and run by early career researchers from Queen Mary and yICSA.
Dr Upkar Gill awarded for work on immune responses in Chronic Hepatitis B 28 April 2022
The British Society of Gastroenterology has announced Dr Upkar (Uppy) Gill of the Blizard Institute as the recipient of the Sir Francis Avery Jones research medal, awarded for his work on immune responses in Chronic Hepatitis B.
Blizard researchers recognised at the British Society for Investigative Dermatology Annual Meeting 28 April 2022
Congratulations to colleagues in the Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research for their success in winning various prizes at the Annual Meeting of the British Society for Investigative Dermatology (BSID).
Blizard student wins Course Rep of the Year award 28 April 2022
Congratulations to second-year BSc Neuroscience student Maria Zareef Kahloon, who was recognised as Course Rep of the Year at Queen Mary Students’ Union’s (QMSU) Education Awards 2022.
Blizard researchers showcase animal-free cancer research methodologies in Parliament 24 March 2022
Innovative technologies funded by Animal Free Research UK demonstrate to MPs how human relevant science can benefit both humans and animals.
New PCR test for oral cancer set to revolutionise diagnosis and treatment 23 March 2022
qMIDS, the world’s first rapid oral cancer test, has been developed by Queen Mary University of London and an international team of researchers. It has the potential to relieve pressure on the NHS and may improve the early detection of oral cancer.
British South Asian genetic study reaches record volunteer numbers 15 March 2022
Genes & Health study, a project led by Queen Mary University of London, has hit a key milestone with 50,000 research volunteers now participating nationally to help address the under-representation of South Asian communities in genetic research.
Blizard profile: Emma Bourne 9 March 2022
Emma Bourne is a senior research technician in the Genome Centre at the Blizard Institute. She recently became a registered scientist through the technician commitment. We caught up with her to find out more.
Queen Mary awarded funding for new healthy ageing networks 8 March 2022
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have been selected by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to create new networks aimed at transforming ageing research in the UK.
Young people from east London educated on air pollution 28 February 2022
In the latest Big Question Lecture at the Centre of the Cell, Dr Abigail Whitehouse engaged a future generation of scientists in the Blizard Institute’s air quality research.
Professor Edel O’Toole awarded for service to dermatological research 28 February 2022
The British Society for Investigative Dermatology has announced Professor Edel O’Toole of the Blizard Institute as the winner of their 2022 Medal, awarded for distinguished service to dermatological research over many years.
New approach to traumatic brain injuries could revolutionise diagnosis and treatment 23 February 2022
New research led by Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health NHS Trust suggests that biochemical analysis of brain tissue could be used for diagnosis and prognosis of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) to improve patient outcomes and save billions in future clinical trials.
Blog: Finding comfort in queer environments 21 February 2022
I am Sarina (she/her), a second year medical student and a queer person. Much of my life I have been searching for comfortable queer environments. When I first came out at the age of 14, I was lucky to have a close-knit group of queer friends that accidently found each other. I was able to relax around them and felt safe to explore my identity. My coming out did not come without its discomfort, however.
Blog: Why I choose to be a ‘Visible Lesbian’ 11 February 2022
"I’ve been an ‘out’ gay woman in the workplace for about 23 years. I am often asked to provide role model profiles for LGBT+ awareness campaigns. Each time I brace myself, cringe inwardly, oblige and then start to seriously dread the thought of anyone reading it. For this year’s LGBT+ awareness week I decided to write this blog on why I choose to keep doing it" – Professor Chloe Orkin
Blizard Profile: Bethany Hughes 11 February 2022
International Day of Women and Girls in Science on 11th February, recognises the critical role women and girls play in science and technology. To celebrate, we catch up with Bethany Hughes, Blizard Institute PhD Student and Committee Chair of Women in Science and Engineering – WISE@QMUL
The young researchers helping to find a cure for paediatric brain cancers 3 February 2022
Thanks to generous donations from Brain Tumour Research's partner charities, The William Low Trust and The Children’s Brain Tumour Foundation, two new PhD students have joined the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the Blizard Institute. Their research is helping to find cures for some of the most devastating childhood brain cancers and provide insights into tackling a variety of brain tumours in young people.
Childhood Immunisations with the Experts 3 February 2022
Dr Louisa James from the Blizard Institute joins public health social media campaign for childhood vaccinations
Blizard Profile: Ryan Wallis 3 February 2022
Later this year, the Blizard Institute will welcome PhD students and early career researchers to the yICSA Senescence Symposium 2022. As Blizard Lead of yICSA and Vice President of the Association, we met with Postdoctoral Research Assistant Ryan Wallis to find out more about the event.
Veganuary – Benefits for Gut Health? 24 January 2022
Veganuary, a dietary trend that involves going vegan for the month of January, has gained popularity in recent years due to growing interest in plant-based diets. However, there is consistent debate about the benefits and drawbacks of removing animal products entirely from the human diet. We asked Dr Ruairi Robertson, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Blizard Institute, about the potential health benefits of a vegan diet in the context of gut health, a growing health trend.
Blizard profile: Thomas Willott 23 January 2022
In August 2020, The William Low Trust announced its commitment to fund a PhD student at the Blizard Institute to help find a cure for medulloblastoma – the most common high-grade brain tumour in children. PhD student Thomas Willott has now joined Professor Silvia Marino's team to help tackle this issue at the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the Institute. We catch up with Tom to find out more.
Graduate Studies Day showcases exciting research from our postgraduate research students 21 January 2022
On Thursday 9 December, the Blizard Institute held its annual Graduate Studies Day to celebrate the work of our postgraduate research students.
Dr Abigail Whitehouse to give Big Question Lecture on air pollution 18 January 2022
Ever wondered what the impact of air pollution is on growing lungs? Or what you can do to improve your lung health? Dr Abigail Whitehouse will explore these questions and more in her free Big Question lecture, co-created with young people from Centre of the Cell’s Youth Membership Scheme.
Blizard profile: Abigail Whitehouse 18 January 2022
Dr Abigail Whitehouse is a researcher and NIHR clinical lecturer in the Centre for Genomics and Child Health at the Blizard Institute. Her research focuses on air pollution and ways to reduce wheezing and asthma in young children. She will explore these themes and more in her upcoming Big Question lecture, co-created with young people from Centre of the Cell’s Youth Membership Scheme.
Blizard Institute seeks to appoint new director 17 January 2022
Join the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry as Blizard Institute Director. Apply now.
Blizard Profile: Carlos De Oliveira 17 January 2022
Carlos De Oliveira took up the role of Research Manager at the Blizard Institute on Tuesday 4 January 2022. He discusses his role in supporting the work of our researchers and enhancing the research environment, including ways in which he can support in grant applications.
Blizard Profile: Xavier Griffin 17 January 2022
Professor Xavier Griffin is a leading consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon. He joins the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry and the Blizard Institute as the inaugural Chair of Bone and Joint Health.
Blizard Institute academic wins President and Principal’s Prize 16 December 2021
Dr Andrew Durham, Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science, is awarded a President and Principal’s Prize for his third-year module: Engaging the Public in Science.
New insights into impact of multiple sclerosis treatments on Covid-19 vaccine effectiveness 15 December 2021
Treatments used to help people with multiple sclerosis (MS) manage their condition can reduce the effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines, according to research from Cardiff University and Queen Mary University of London
New online training platform builds global expertise in trauma research 14 December 2021
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London are helping to develop trauma frontline professionals as part of an international collaboration with Thailand’s Thai Siriraj Medical School and Mahidol University.
Blizard profile: Phoebe Hodges 14 December 2021
Phoebe Hodges was recently awarded funding from the latest round of Queen Mary's Postgraduate Research Fund. Phoebe plans to use the award to facilitate microbiome work at the African Microbiome Institute in South Africa to look for changes associated with the demographic and nutrition transition in Zambia, from a subsistence farming community eating a traditional diet in a rural village, to people of high socioeconomic status living in the capital city Lusaka.
Immune imprinting causes varied patterns of protection against COVID-19 variants 3 December 2021
New research shows that the first SARS-CoV-2 spike protein a person encounters, be it by vaccination or infection, shapes their subsequent immune response against current and future variants.
Queen Mary academics secure major funding from the National Institute for Health Research 3 December 2021
A team of academics from Queen Mary University of London have successfully secured funding for a major research project led by Professor Andrew Prendergast from Queen Mary’s Blizard Institute and Dr Bwakura-Dangarembizi from the University of Zimbabwe.
Blizard Paper of the Year reveals groundbreaking insights into lifelong immunity 3 December 2021
Research into immune memory in humans creates roadmap of germinal centres that could be the key to effective vaccines
Allergic conditions linked to lower Covid-19 infection risk 2 December 2021
New research from Queen Mary University of London sheds new light on the risk factors for developing Covid-19.
New £11.6 million PhD Programme for health research in underrepresented populations 30 November 2021
The Health Advances in Underrepresented Populations and Diseases (HARP) PhD Programme focuses research towards people and diseases that have traditionally been underrepresented in healthcare studies.
World Aids Day – Improving the lives of everyone affected by HIV 30 November 2021
As we mark 40 years since the first reported cases of HIV-related illnesses and deaths, we can see that HIV treatment and care has come a long way since the times when being diagnosed with HIV was a death sentence.
New target for Covid-19 vaccines identified 11 November 2021
Next generation vaccines for Covid-19 should aim to induce an immune response against ‘replication proteins’, essential for the very earliest stages of the viral cycle, according to a new study involving Queen Mary University of London researchers, Professor Aine McKnight, Dr Corinna Pade and Joseph Gibbons.
New study by London research team deepens understanding of the autonomic nervous system. 11 November 2021
Innovations in brain imaging cast new light on the fundamentals of autonomic function, improve how autonomic disorders are detected and characterised, and provide a blueprint to apply advanced graphical modelling in other areas.
Neuroscience student completes summer programme at the Francis Crick Institute 21 October 2021
Maria Riscado Ramos talks about her experience.
Research breakthrough could mean better treatment for patients with most deadly form of brain tumour 21 October 2021
Blizard researchers studying the most common and aggressive type of brain tumour in adults have discovered a new way of analysing diseased and healthy cells from the same patient.
Young children from England’s poorest areas are shorter, according to new Queen Mary study 28 September 2021
Primary school children from England’s most deprived areas are nearly twice as likely to be short than those in the least deprived areas, according to new research led by the Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London.
Queen Mary researchers help develop nasal spray that prevents Covid-19 27 September 2021
Queen Mary University of London professors Rakesh Uppal and Áine McKnight have been at the centre of a new clinical trial finding that pHOXWELL – a nasal spray developed by biotech company pHOXBIO - reduced SARS-CoV-2 infection by 63 per cent in the group given pHOXWELL compared to the group given the placebo. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes Covid-19.
Blizard Institute professor appointed as President of UK’s leading organisation for women doctors 14 September 2021
Professor Chloe Orkin, Clinical Professor of HIV Medicine from the Blizard Institute, has been appointed as President of the Medical Women’s Federation.
Researchers develop first human-relevant microphysiological model of neuromuscular circuits for Duchenne muscular dystrophy 10 September 2021
A team of researchers from Dr Yung-Yao Lin’s group at the Blizard Institute, in collaboration with Dr Ivo Lieberam at King's College London, have developed the first light-controllable neuromuscular model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) using bioengineering techniques, pluripotent stem cells, and optogenetics – a neuromodulation method that uses genetically engineered “light sensors” to control the activities of individual neurons in living tissue.
Charity set up in memory of William Low to fund PhD student at the Blizard Institute 11 August 2021
The William Low Trust has announced its commitment to fund a PhD student at the Blizard Institute over a four-year period at a cost of £143,657, to help find a cure for medulloblastoma – the most common high-grade brain tumour in children.
New HIV centre set up to tackle inequality and improve treatment 12 July 2021
A new HIV research centre is being set up by Queen Mary academics to address health inequalities and improve quality of life for everyone affected by HIV.
New mouth cancer centre to improve survival and quality of life for thousands of patients 23 June 2021
A new cancer centre is being set up to improve survival rates and quality of life for thousands of people affected by squamous cancer – a specific type of cancer which affects the mouth, skin, lungs and cervix.
Long noncoding RNAs in neurological diseases 17 June 2021
Giuseppe Trigiante and Andrea Cerase from the Centre for Genomics and Child Health at the Blizard Institute are currently running a project funded by Barts Charity, aiming to uncover the role of long noncoding RNAS (lncRNAs) in neuronal function. In this explainer, they discuss the role and function of lncRNAs, how they are involved in neurodevelopmental disease, and the importance of understanding this connection.
Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence to receive additional funding 20 May 2021
The Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the Blizard Institute is to receive funding of £144,000 to increase its team working to help find a cure for childhood brain tumours.
Professor Daniel Pennington helps to tackle vaccine hesitancy among young people 7 May 2021
Daniel Pennington, Professor of Molecular Immunology and Centre Lead for the Centre for Immunobiology at the Blizard Institute, joined secondary school teacher Ed Stubbs to design resources to help young people better understand immunisation programmes.
Prior SARS-CoV-2 infection rescues B and T cell responses to variants after first vaccine dose 30 April 2021
A single dose of vaccine boosts potent responses against SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus variants in those with previous COVID-19, a study has found.
Researchers discover new way to starve brain tumours 12 April 2021
Scientists from Queen Mary University of London, funded by the charity Brain Tumour Research and the Medical Research Council, have found a new way to starve cancerous brain tumour cells of energy in order to prevent further growth.
Professor Frances Balkwill – combining research and public engagement 6 April 2021
In this World View article for the journal Nature Reviews Cancer, Professor Frances Balkwill discusses her dual career in public engagement and research.
Scientists develop rapid test for diagnosis of rare set of genetic conditions 17 March 2021
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London and Cardiff University have developed a rapid test for the diagnosis of a constellation of rare and debilitating genetic conditions. The new high-resolution technology will be 'step-change' in testing for telomere disorders.
Research summary: Accelerating change in the management of Chronic Hepatitis B 15 March 2021
In this research summary of a recent study from Blizard Institute researchers Patrick Kennedy and Upkar Gill, we hear about the potential of liver cancer development in patients with ‘quiescent’ chronic hepatitis B, after the group extensively studied the liver compartment in a cohort of east London patients.
Significant gender disparities revealed in COVID-19 clinical trial leadership 5 March 2021
Less than one-third of COVID-19 clinical trials are led by women, which is half the proportion observed in non-COVID-19 trials, according to research led by Queen Mary University of London, University of St Andrews, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School.
Single dose of vaccine acts as ‘booster’ in those with prior COVID-19 infection 26 February 2021
People who have previously had COVID-19 have an enhanced antibody response with a single dose of RNA vaccine, according to a study of 51 UK healthcare workers, around half of whom had a previous laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Researchers find long-term exposure to microbial pathogens results in childhood stunting 18 February 2021
In a new paper published in Nature Microbiology, researchers from the Blizard Institute and colleagues from the Tropical Gastroenterology & Nutrition group in Zambia have found that constant exposure to microbial pathogens in children leads to stunted growth.
Cross-faculty team win funding challenge to study tissue regeneration using organ-on-a-chip technology 16 February 2021
A team of interdisciplinary researchers from Queen Mary University of London’s Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, and the School of Engineering and Materials Science, are one of three awardees for Phase 1 funding of the NC3Rs CRACK IT Challenge call. The funding will allow the team to develop a way to study tissue regeneration after traumatic injuries using organ-on-a-chip technology.
Mystery of how human immune cells develop lifelong immunity uncovered – new research 12 February 2021
Dr Hamish King and Dr Louisa James from the Centre for Immunobiology at the Blizard Institute discuss their new research into the role of the human germinal centre response and behaviour of B cells in developing immune memory.
Blizard research on the human antibody response reveals insights into long-term immune memory to vaccines and infections 12 February 2021
In a paper published today in Science Immunology, researchers from the Blizard Institute conduct a detailed study of how antibody responses are generated in humans using a technique to measure the genes expressed by individual B cells and in parallel sequence their antibody genes. The findings could have implications for testing vaccine efficacy and understanding our immune systems more generally.
Q&A: Vitamin D3 replacement enhances antigen-specific immunity in older adults 11 January 2021
Research published in the journal Immunotherapy Advances by scientists from the Centre for Immunobiology at the Blizard Institute, University College London, University of Edinburgh and Royal Free Hospital in London has shown that vitamin D replacement enhances antigen-specific immunity in the elderly. In this Q&A, Corresponding Author Dr Emma Chambers from the Centre for Immunobiology discusses these recent findings and the wider implications for improving the health-span of the UK’s aging population.
Study finds evidence of lasting immunity after mild or asymptomatic Covid-19 infection 23 December 2020
New research involving scientists from Queen Mary University of London has found evidence of protective immunity in people up to four months after mild or asymptomatic Covid-19.
Emergency and Resuscitation Medicine team wins Education Excellence Award 18 December 2020
Congratulations to the MSc Emergency and Resuscitation Medicine programme team at the Blizard Institute for receiving the award. Professor Colin Bailey, President and Principal, and Professor Stephanie Marshall, Vice-Principal (Education), presented Queen Mary's Education Excellence Awards and President and Principal's Prizes for 2020/21 at an online ceremony held on Tuesday 8 December 2020.
Queen Mary academic provides expert testimony for inquest on air pollution death 17 December 2020
An inquest has ruled that air pollution was the cause of death of a nine year old girl. The outcome has made legal history as air pollution has never been identified as a cause of death before in the UK.
Blizard scientists receive donation from Emulate, Inc to support Covid-19 research 3 December 2020
Researchers from the Blizard Institute will use miniaturised living systems with human cells, known as organ-chips, donated by Emulate, Inc to investigate how Covid-19 affects the lungs.
New study to determine if air pollution increases COVID-19 risk 30 November 2020
A new study has been launched to better understand the link between air pollution and increased risk of developing COVID-19.
Q&A: MeCP2 reactivation for Rett Syndrome therapy 30 November 2020
In a new collaborative study involving the Cerase lab at the Blizard Institute, screening of around 30,000 molecules has shown that inhibitors of Janus Kinases, a class of protein that can modify other proteins in the cell, are potent reactivators of Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations in the MeCP2 gene. In this Q&A, Dr Andrea Cerase explains why this new discovery could help introduce new therapeutic molecules into the treatment of RTT.
MS clinical trial to focus on people who can’t walk 19 November 2020
The first multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical trial to focus only on people who can’t walk is to start recruiting. The ChariotMS trial, led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, will test whether cladribine tablets (Mavenclad®), already licensed for highly active relapsing MS, can slow the rate of upper limb disability progression in people with advanced MS.
Queen Mary and Barts Health deliver Covid-19 vaccine trial in east London 16 November 2020
Londoners are today being urged to join a leading phase three Covid-19 vaccine study, as Barts Health NHS Trust and Queen Mary University of London administer a new trial from the Barts Health Vaccines Trials Centre at Bethnal Green Library.
Q&A: The HUSH complex – a gatekeeper of type I interferon through epigenetic regulation of LINE-1 elements 3 November 2020
Dr Helen Rowe from the Centre for Immunobiology explains how Hale Tunbak and Rocio Enriquez-Gasca in her lab have linked LINE-1 elements and the HUSH complex to regulation of the human innate immune system.
€9.5m EU funding awarded for ground-breaking research into incontinence 30 October 2020
Queen Mary University of London is part of a consortium of 13 organisations across nine countries set to receive €9.5m in EU funding for a ground-breaking research project into the treatment of faecal incontinence.
Blizard Professor confirmed as President of European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility 26 October 2020
On Friday 23 October, Professor Qasim Aziz, Director of the Wingate Institute (part of the Blizard Institute) and Professor of Neurogastroenterology, was confirmed as President of the European Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (ESNM). The official confirmation follows his election to the post on Saturday 15 February 2020.
Clinical trial to investigate whether vitamin D protects against COVID-19 13 October 2020
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London, funded by Barts Charity, have launched a new clinical trial to investigate whether taking vitamin D could protect people from COVID-19.
Dr Madusha Peiris featured in Channel 4 programme on how to beat fat 5 October 2020
Channel 4 has featured Dr Madusha Peiris from the Wingate Institute of Neurogastroenterology (part of the Blizard Institute) in their latest episode of "How to beat... Fat" where she helped 10 volunteers develop new weight loss techniques.
Air pollution particles and metals found in the placenta 23 September 2020
Pollution particles, including metals, have been found in the placentas of fifteen women in London, according to research led by Queen Mary University of London.
Wingate professor featured in BBC film about living with IBD 14 September 2020
Professor Qasim Aziz, Director of the Wingate Institute of Neurogastroenterology at the Blizard Institute, features in a new short film produced by the BBC and released online on Saturday 12 September. He discusses the connection between the brain and the gut, and potential new treatments for inflammatory bowel disease.
Pregnant women with COVID-19 less likely to have symptoms, may be more likely to need intensive care and give birth early 10 September 2020
Pregnant women seen in hospital with COVID-19 are less likely to show symptoms, and seem to be at increased risk of needing admission to an intensive care unit than non-pregnant women of similar age, according to a study involving researchers from the Blizard Institute and Institute of Population Health Sciences at Queen Mary University of London.
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation shown to prevent the development of, and reverse, established oesophageal pain hypersensitivity 4 September 2020
In a new paper published in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, researchers from the Wingate Institute of Neurogastroenterology at the Blizard Institute have demonstrated that transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation (t‐VNS) prevents the development of and/or reverses established visceral hypersensitivity in a previously validated model of acid‐induced oesophageal pain.
New study into air pollution exposure in African children 27 August 2020
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have received funding from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) to conduct research into air pollution exposure affecting children in Africa.
Childhood obesity could increase the risk of multiple sclerosis 26 August 2020
Childhood and adolescent obesity is projected to contribute up to 14 per cent of overall risk of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2035, according to research led by Queen Mary University of London.
Educators at Centre of the Cell shown to boost learning 24 August 2020
New research led by North Carolina State University and the University of Exeter has shown that youth educators at informal science learning sites such as Centre of the Cell play an important role in promoting engagement with STEM learning for young people outside of formal education.
Rapid PCR testing for COVID-19 being trialled in London care homes 23 July 2020
In a UK-first, Queen Mary University of London is leading a clinical trial of a new rapid COVID-19 testing system that delivers results in under an hour. Working with the East London Health and Care Partnership, up to 2,000 staff and residents in 50 care homes are being recruited to see how effective rapid daily COVID-19 testing is at reducing rates of infection, hospitalisation and deaths.
Blizard researcher helps draft report calling for intense preparation for winter COVID-19 peak 16 July 2020
A new report from the Academy of Medical Sciences released on Tuesday 14 July warns that the UK must prepare now for a potential new wave of coronavirus infections this winter, which could be even more deadly than the first.
Scientists discover protective Alzheimer’s gene and develop rapid drug-testing platform 10 July 2020
A gene has been discovered that can naturally suppress the signs of Alzheimer’s Disease in human brain cells, in research led by Queen Mary University of London. The scientists have also developed a new rapid drug-screening system for treatments that could potentially delay or prevent the disease.
Changes in neuroglial cells contribute to immune evasion and tumour growth in most common malignant brain tumour in adults 29 June 2020
A new paper by a researchers from the Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence, part of the Centre for Genomics and Child Health at the Blizard Institute, published in The EMBO Journal, finds that reactions in the microglia triggered by Glioblastoma multiforme hinders effective T‐cell infiltration, proliferation and immune reactivity, thereby contributing to tumour immune evasion and promoting tumour growth.
Q&A: Small extracellular vesicles have the ability to rejuvenate old cells and reduce tissue damage associated with the ageing process 23 June 2020
Various studies are currently looking at ways to rejuvenate old cells using young donor cells or certain drugs, however many of these approaches are toxic or may have unwanted side effects such as cancer. In this study published in the journal Cell Metabolism, researchers from the Epigenetics and Cellular Senescence Group at the Blizard Institute have demonstrated a much safer potential avenue using 'extracellular vesicles' released by young donor cells. In this Q&A, Dr Ana O’Loghlen describes the finding and the potential for future therapeutic use.
Q&A: 3D model of harlequin ichthyosis reveals inflammatory therapeutic targets 22 June 2020
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London, University of Cambridge, and Barts Health NHS Trust have identified new avenues for possible treatment of the genetic skin disorder harlequin ichthyosis using a 3D cell model in a new paper published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation. In this Q&A, Professor Edel O’Toole from the Blizard Institute’s Centre for Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research explains how they identified new inflammatory therapeutic targets and the wider implications of the results.
Q&A: The different ways in which cells talk to each other during the ageing process 8 June 2020
A new paper by Dr Ana O’Loghlen and Juan Antonio Fafián-Labora from the Epigenetics and Cellular Senescence Group at the Blizard Institute, published in the journal Trends in Cell Biology, provides a review of different means of intercellular communication including soluble factors in the context of senescence, ageing and age-related diseases. In this Q&A, Dr O’Loghlen discusses the importance and wider implications of this review.
A multi-million pound boost for orthopaedic research 5 June 2020
Barts Charity has donated £2.9 million to establish a new centre of excellence for academic trauma and orthopaedic surgery at Queen Mary University of London and Barts Health NHS Trust.
New antibody technology for monitoring MS patients may have potential in COVID-19 testing 4 June 2020
A new study led by Queen Mary University of London has demonstrated the effectiveness of using a novel light technology to monitor the presence of anti-drug antibodies in the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS), which can lead to drug resistance and treatment failure. The researchers say that they have also applied the technology to COVID-19 for potential use in antibody testing to determine whether someone has previously been infected with the virus.
Student blogs: Volunteering in the fight against COVID-19 21 May 2020
We're incredibly proud of all our staff and students who are working or volunteering on the front line or behind the scenes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of our postgraduate students have taken time from their studies and are currently working within the NHS, Public Health Wales and the ambulance service. Here we are highlighting the work of some of our students on the MSc Biomedical Science (Medical Microbiology) and MSc Clinical Science (Infection Science) programmes.
Blizard Institute professor releases single in memory of NHS colleagues 11 May 2020
Blizard Institute Professor of Surgery and Barts Health NHS Trust Consultant Surgeon, Professor Charles Knowles, has written and recorded a ballad in memory of all NHS staff and other key workers who have lost their lives in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Hospitals are safer places than you might think, new COVID-19 research finds 11 May 2020
Research involving Queen Mary University of London suggests that currently the public should not fear contracting COVID-19 from hospital staff, who appear to be at low risk of infection by patients.
Queen Mary 3D-prints protective equipment for COVID-19 NHS workers 8 April 2020
The Queen Mary University of London community, including researchers, clinicians and support staff, have stepped in to assist the NHS with urgent requirements of personal protective equipment (PPE) to combat the outbreak of COVID-19.
Queen Mary hosts precision medicine leadership event showcasing developments from academia and industry 8 April 2020
On Thursday 5 March, Queen Mary hosted a successful precision medicine leadership event at St Bartholomew’s Great Hall on our West Smithfield campus. The event, run in partnership with One Nucleus and Cerba Research, explored new developments in the field of precision medicine as well as opportunities for academic and industrial collaboration.
Blizard PhD student takes platelet research to Parliament 3 April 2020
PhD student Harriet Allan from the Blizard Institute's Centre for Immunobiology attended Parliament to present her research to politicians and scientific experts as part of the STEM for BRITAIN event.
Blizard staff set up COVID-19 diagnostic studies in record time 24 March 2020
The first clinical samples of COVID-19 have been received by the Blizard Institute.
Professor of Paediatrics appointed as NIHR Senior Investigator 28 February 2020
The Blizard Institute's Professor Grigg has been appointed as a Senior Investigator for 2020 by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) – the nation's largest funder of health and care research.
New light technology helps identify anti-drug antibodies 18 February 2020
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London, including the Blizard Institute, have successfully demonstrated the use of a novel light emitting technology in identifying anti-drug antibodies that can reduce effectiveness of monoclonal antibody therapies.
Neuron Pod named one of the 10 best buildings of 2019 12 February 2020
On Saturday 8 February, Neuron Pod, the state-of-the-art, purpose-built learning and community space at Centre of the Cell, was named by The Times as one of the 10 best buildings in 2019.
Q&A: The efficacy and safety of using adeno-associated virus-mediated gene therapy to treat patients with Haemophilia A 7 January 2020
Researchers led by Professor John Pasi from the Blizard Institute have demonstrated the efficacy and long-term safety of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene therapy to treat Haemophilia A over three years. In this Q&A, Professor Pasi discusses why this study is important, and the wider implications for the research.
National Centre for the Replacement Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research PhD studentship now available 20 December 2019
Dr Yung-Yao Lin from the Centre for Genomics and Child Health at the Blizard Institute has been awarded funding to offer a PhD studentship in ‘3D bio-printing human pluripotent stem cell-derived skeletal muscle constructs for disease modelling and drug discovery’ by the National Centre for the Replacement Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs)
Neuron Pod wins major lighting award 18 December 2019
Neuron Pod, the state-of-the-art, purpose-built learning and community space at Centre of the Cell has won the Lighting Designer of the Year award for Community Building Lighting at the LIT Design Awards™, thanks to Sutton Vane Associates.
Dr Benita Morrissey wins President and Principal’s Prize at Queen Mary’s Education Excellence Awards 11 December 2019
Congratulations to Dr Benita Morrissey of the Centre for Genomics and Child Health at the Blizard Institute for winning the President and Principal’s Prize at the Education Excellence Awards yesterday evening.
Centre of the Cell reaches milestone of 200,000 participants 29 November 2019
Centre of the Cell, Queen Mary University of London’s informal biomedical science learning centre, has recorded 200,000 participants in its activities.
Queen Mary academic receives fellowship for leading research in social psychiatry 4 November 2019
Dr Mariana Pinto da Costa, a Queen Mary University of London Doctoral Research Fellow, has received a Fellowship from the World Association of Social Psychiatry.
Queen Mary celebrates successful bid for Wellcome Trust PhD Programme in Science: Health Data in Practice 21 October 2019
Academics from Queen Mary University of London have been awarded £5.5 million to deliver an innovative ‘Health Data in Practice' PhD Programme, with the first intake of students planned for October 2020.
Neuron Pod receives commendation at Structural Steel Design Awards 7 October 2019
Centre of the Cell has received a commendation for ‘a high standard of design’ for Neuron Pod, the new state-of-the-art, purpose-built learning and community space.
Professor Brohi named again as one of London's most influential people 4 October 2019
Professor Karim Brohi, Centre for Trauma Sciences (C4TS) lead and Consultant Trauma and Vascular Surgeon at Barts Health NHS Trust, has for the second year in a row been named in the Evening Standard's Progress 1000 list which recognises the most influential people in the capital.
US Department of Defense awards £1m to Queen Mary University of London for AI research on treating injured soldiers 2 October 2019
Medical care of injured soldiers could improve with new Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools designed for the battlefield and the hospital following a grant from the US Department of Defense for research at Queen Mary University of London.
Q&A: New patient-derived iPSC model for congenital muscular dystrophies demonstrates feasibility of identifying novel drug therapies 30 September 2019
Researchers at the Blizard Institute have demonstrated for the first time the feasibility of models using patient-derived stem cells in assessing future drug candidates in the treatment of dystroglycanopathies (a group of congenital muscular dystrophies). In this Q&A, Dr Yung-Yao Lin from the Centre for Genomics and Child Health explains the implications of this proof of concept study in identifying drug therapies in the treatment of dystroglycanopathies, and for the study of other neurological diseases.
European guidelines on lipid control advocate “lower is better” for cholesterol levels 27 September 2019
The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) launched new guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias at the ESC meeting 1–4 September 2019 with the guidelines concurrently published in the European Heart Journal. Professor Borislava Mihaylova, Chair in Health Economics at the Centre for Primary Care and Public Health at the Blizard Institute, is a member of the guidelines Taskforce.
Universities Minister visits Queen Mary as £20m enterprise zone funding is announced 24 September 2019
Universities Minister Chris Skidmore toured Queen Mary University of London’s Whitechapel campus as part of a funding announcement that will help universities stimulate growth in their local economies and provide vital support for innovative new companies.
Professor Chloe Orkin breaking stigma and dispelling myths around HIV with former Wales rugby captain Gareth Thomas 18 September 2019
Before going public with his HIV diagnosis, Gareth Thomas spoke to Professor Chloe Orkin, British HIV Association (BHIVA) Chair and Clinical Professor of HIV Medicine at the Blizard Institute, who helped him to tackle the stigmas, myths and misunderstandings surrounding the condition. Their conversation features in the BBC documentary, "HIV and Me," broadcast on Wednesday 18 September.
Rare disease differences in males and females: X Chromosome inactivation and reactivation – implications for a therapeutic approach 5 September 2019
Rett syndrome is a rare and devastating neurological disorder. It is a genetic disease caused by a mutation on the X chromosome, and affects almost only girls. Andrea Cerase from the Centre for Genomics and Child Health discusses his research into rare disease differences between sexes, and the implications for treating epigenetics-based disorders.
Q&A: How histones cause platelets to swell and balloon in trauma patients 21 August 2019
A team of researchers from the Blizard Institute’s Centre for Trauma Sciences (C4TS) and Centre for Immunobiology have recently had research published in the journal PNAS which found that histones, small proteins released by the injured tissues of trauma patients, punch holes in platelets causing them to swell into balloon structures. The surface of these platelet balloons support blood clot formation, and microparticles released from balloons then stick to white blood cells and may alter the response of the immune system.
In this Q&A, Dr Scarlett Gillespie from C4TS explains the significance of the results and implications for further research.
Queen Mary hosts first international tuberculosis symposium 21 August 2019
This summer, the Blizard Institute at Queen Mary University of London, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre in Tradate, Italy, held Queen Mary’s first international tuberculosis (TB) symposium.
Mediterranean diet during pregnancy reduces gestational diabetes and weight gain 24 July 2019
A simple Mediterranean-style diet in pregnancy does not reduce the overall risk of adverse maternal and offspring complications, but has the potential to reduce weight gain in pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes, according to a clinical trial led by Queen Mary University of London and the University of Warwick.
Blizard Clinical Research Fellow wins 'Best Image' in Life Sciences Image Awards 2019 19 July 2019
Paul Vulliamy, Clinical Research Fellow in the Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, came out on top for his image of 'White Blood Cells in Colour'. He received an iPad Air and Apple pencil for his win.
Charles Perrin CBE visits the Blizard Institute to view donated exhibition 11 July 2019
On Tuesday 9 July, Charles Perrin CBE and his wife Gill visited the Blizard Institute to view his 2018 donation on display outside the Perrin Lecture Theatre at Queen Mary’s Whitechapel campus.
New stillbirth risk figures help women’s decisions on timing delivery 2 July 2019
With every week that a pregnancy continues past term (37 weeks), the risk of stillbirth increases, according to an analysis of more than 15 million pregnancies led by Queen Mary University of London.
New study aims to prevent anaemia in Peruvian children 1 July 2019
The causes of persistent high levels of anaemia among Peruvian children will be investigated by a new study led by Queen Mary University of London and the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño (INSN), in collaboration with Universidad Nacional Intercultural de la Amazonia (UNIA) and Universidad Nacional San Christobal de Huamanga in Peru.
Study finds increase in step-count leads to long term health benefits 26 June 2019
A new study involving researchers from the Blizard Institute found that short-term pedometer interventions produce significant health benefits several years later.
Q&A: How ageing cells signal nearby cells to indicate they are not well 25 June 2019
The Blizard Institute’s Dr Ana O’Loghlen and team* has had research published today in the journal Cell Reports, which shows that senescent (damaged and/or old) cells send messages in the form of packed ‘bags’ to other nearby cells to indicate that they are not well.
In this Q&A, Dr O’Loghlen explains the relevance of this research in ageing and age-related diseases, and discusses how this could be the reason why ageing can spread so quickly between different tissues in the body.
South Korean government delegation visits the Blizard Institute to learn about tuberculosis management 21 June 2019
On Thursday 13 June, Queen Mary welcomed a delegation of civil servants from South Korea’s Gyeongsangbuk-do provincial government to learn about Tuberculosis (TB) elimination policy in London. The meeting was hosted at the Blizard Institute in conjunction with the Queen Mary Global Policy Institute.
Blizard professor appointed as Vice-President of Medical Women's Federation 4 June 2019
Professor Chloe Orkin has been appointed as the new Vice-President of the UK’s leading organisation for women doctors.
Spanish flu was ignored as a ‘minor infection’ two years before the great outbreak of 1918 28 May 2019
The most severe pandemic in recent history, killing some 50 million people worldwide, the Spanish Influenza, may have emerged up to two years earlier than previously believed, according to a new study by Queen Mary University of London researchers.
Blizard academic awarded for contribution to general practice through research 22 May 2019
Professor Deborah Swinglehurst from the Centre for Primary Care and Public Health at the Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, has received the John Fry Award for promoting the discipline of general practice through research and publishing.
Project launches to improve asthma control in African schoolchildren 21 May 2019
A new project to improve asthma in African children has been officially launched at an event in Durban, South Africa.
Diabetes patients at higher risk of deadly liver disease, finds study of 18 million people 20 May 2019
Many patients with potentially deadly liver cirrhosis and liver cancer are being diagnosed at late advanced stages of disease, according to a study led by Queen Mary University of London and the University of Glasgow.
New tool to predict epileptic seizures in pregnancy could save lives 14 May 2019
A new risk calculator for pregnant women with epilepsy, developed by researchers from Queen Mary University of London, has been found to accurately predict the risk of seizures during pregnancy and up to six weeks after delivery, and could save the lives of mothers and babies.
Queen Mary launches world's first postgraduate certificate in tuberculosis 13 May 2019
In order to train the next generation of tuberculosis (TB) specialists, Queen Mary University of London has announced the launch of the world’s first postgraduate certificate to focus exclusively on TB, which will be delivered across the world through online distance learning from September 2019.
Blizard academic awarded for Outstanding Contribution to Health 29 April 2019
Professor Dame Parveen Kumar DBE from the Centre for Immunobiology at the Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, has received the BMJ Award for Outstanding Contribution to Health.
Blizard researcher recognised for early career excellence in nutrition science 5 April 2019
Dr Ruairi Robertson, Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Centre for Genomics and Child Heath at the Blizard Institute, has been recognised by the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) for his work on how different nutrients affect the gut microbiota in early life and the subsequent effects on child health and disease, particularly child growth.
Q&A - How an antibiotic reduces systemic inflammation in HIV infection by altering the gut microbiome and immune activation 4 April 2019
The Blizard Institute's Dr Claire Bourke and Dr Andrew Prendergast and colleagues had research published this week in the journal Science Translational Medicine, which shows for the first time that otrimoxazole treatment suppresses inflammation among people living with HIV.
In this Q&A, Dr Bourke explains the significance of the research and the implications that this might have in the treatment of other health conditions that are made worse by ongoing inflammation.
Death rates from caesarean section far higher in developing countries, finds major global study 29 March 2019
Caesarean sections are disproportionately threatening the lives of women and babies in low and middle-income countries (LMIC), according to a study led by Queen Mary University of London.
Research team’s award-winning work in the fight against TB 12 December 2018
A tuberculosis screening and treatment programme involving researchers from Queen Mary University of London has won a ‘Community or Primary Care Services Redesign’ award at the 2018 Health Service Journal (HSJ) awards.
London doctors call for urgent action to tackle legacy of youth violence 6 November 2018
Researchers from Queen Mary University of London are calling for a police and community focus during the hours after school, after their research found that young people are most likely to be stabbed after school finishes for the day.
Gender inequality could be driving the deaths of girls under five 30 October 2018
Levels of gender inequality across the world are associated with disproportionate death rates among girls under five years old, according to a study led by Queen Mary University of London.
Barts Charity launches appeal to raise £1 million for Queen Mary’s life-saving trauma research 24 September 2018
The Barts Charity Trauma Appeal, which was launched today, aims to raise £1 million to support vital research at The Royal London Hospital, in conjunction with Queen Mary University of London’s Centre for Trauma Sciences.
Stem cell transplants to be used in treating Crohn’s disease 6 August 2018
A clinical trial has begun which will use stem cell transplants to grow a new immune system for people with untreatable Crohn’s disease – a painful and chronic intestinal disease which affects at least 115,000 people in the UK.
Zimbabwe’s new era and hopes for treating child malnutrition 31 July 2018
Ruairi Robertson is a Sir Henry Wellcome Postdoctoral Research Fellow based at the Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London. In this two-part blog, he describes his recent trip to Zimbabwe where he and his team are carrying out research into severe acute malnutrition.
New study to examine the brain health of former footballers 18 July 2018
Former players will be recruited through the Professional Footballers’ Association for a study examining the link between heading the ball or concussions and long-term brain function.
Looking inside online health communities for people with chronic diseases: what holds them up? 12 July 2018
15 million adults in England have a long-term condition (LTC) and can access online peer support. Online health communities can influence health, use of healthcare resources, and improve illness self-management. The way people connect online and in particular how highly active users (called superusers) shape the online communities play a fundamental role in information diffusion, according a study published today in the journal JMIR.
Q&A: How a DNA repair gene can cause bone marrow failure 11 July 2018
Dr Hemanth Tummala and colleagues from the Blizard Institute had research published this week in the journal PNAS, which finds a new role for a gene in DNA repair.
Primarily funded by the Medical Research Council and Bloodwise charity, the researchers studied children with inherited bone marrow failure (IBMF) to find mutations that might be causing their disease.
In this Q&A, Dr Tummala explains the significance of the research and how it might lead to new treatments for cancer.
BRAIN Study progressing well 6 June 2018
The second round of participant recruitment is due to start. Watch the video.
New research funding brings new hope for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy 9 May 2018
Barts Charity and Action Duchenne have combined forces to support research into new stem cell therapies for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. With a combined award of £276,000 (£250,000 from Barts Charity and £26,000 from Action Duchenne) they will be supporting the research of Dr Yung-Yao Lin, lecturer at the Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London.
Tuberculosis awareness animation launched for World TB Day 28 March 2018
A new health promotion tool has been launched to inform people about latent tuberculosis (TB) and engage migrant communities with local NHS testing and treatment.
Academic receives honour from the Queen 27 February 2018
Health ministers and politicians visit brain tumour research labs 26 February 2018
UK health ministers shared the news of an upcoming funding boost to brain tumour research, during a visit to laboratories at Queen Mary University of London this week.
Theatre project boosts peer support for young people with asthma 11 September 2017
An innovative theatre project and a game app have been presented by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) researchers at the British Science Festival as new ways to help teenagers with asthma.
Leading medical charity awarded six-figure sum from London Freemasons to drive progress against “neglected” cancer 30 August 2017
Professor Green launches 'Transform Trauma' fundraising appeal for QMUL research 26 July 2017
The rapper Professor Green is helping to raise funds for trauma research at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) in a major appeal led by Barts Charity.
Moderate exercise and dieting reduces risk of caesarean section and diabetes in pregnancy 24 July 2017
Pregnant women who have a healthy diet and regular moderate exercise are less likely to have a caesarean section, gain excessive weight, or develop diabetes in pregnancy, according to a study led by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) using data from over 12,000 women.
Congratulations to Centre of the Cell on welcoming its 150,000th visitor in June 2017. 6 July 2017
The Blizard Institute’s science education centre, Centre of the Cell, reached a milestone of 150,000 participants in June 2017.
Sugar intake during pregnancy is associated with allergy and allergic asthma in children 6 July 2017
High maternal sugar intake during pregnancy may increase the risk of allergy and allergic asthma in the offspring, according to an early study led by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) involving almost 9,000 mother-child pairs
Previously unpublished trial data explain side effects of key MS drug 16 June 2017
Through a Freedom of Information request to the European Medicines Agency, researchers from Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) have gained access to data from drug trials, revealing new information about a key drug for multiple sclerosis (MS).
Teenagers with asthma feel mocked for using their inhalers 14 June 2017
The research, published in BMJ Open, analysed posts written by teenagers and their parents from Asthma UK’s online forum between 2006 and 2016. It found that the social stigma of asthma can play a role in teenagers choosing not to use their inhalers.
Scans of brains and spinal cords reveal new insights into MS 12 May 2017
Some common assumptions about the nature of multiple sclerosis (MS) are being challenged in two new studies led by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) that analyse the brains and spinal cords of patients.
New tool predicts severe risks in mothers with pregnancy complications 30 March 2017
A new tool developed by researchers from Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) could save mothers’ and babies’ lives by predicting whether women with early onset pre-eclampsia are safe to prolong their pregnancy.
QMUL professor selected as NIHR senior investigator 30 March 2017
Congratulations to Professor Sandra Eldridge from the Centre for Primary Care and Public Health, who has been selected as a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) senior investigator.
QMUL researchers among winners announced for £2m programme to commercialise life sciences discoveries 22 March 2017
Congratulations to Dr Rosalind Hannen and Professor Kenny Linton who have been successful in securing an award from MedCity’s new ‘Collaborate to Innovate’ scheme. The £2m ‘Collaborate to Innovate programme, led by King’s College London and part-funded by ERDF and HEFCE, is connecting 16 life sciences SMEs with leading academics to address a specific challenge related to their product or service.
New protein discovered in ageing and cancer 9 March 2017
A protein has been found to have a previously unknown role in the ageing of cells, according to an early study by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL). The researchers hope that the findings could one day lead to new treatments for ageing and early cancer.
Blizard students publish in Journal of Physiology 24 February 2017
Congratulations to Blizard students for publishing a paper in the Journal of Physiology.
Blizard Club - Paper of the Year 2016 23 February 2017
£2.4 million awarded for international trial on major traumatic bleeding 10 February 2017
Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) and NHS Blood & Transplant have been awarded £2.4m from the National Institute for Health Research and Barts Charity to carry out a large multi-centre clinical trial to evaluate a new treatment in major traumatic haemorrhage
Engagement and Enterprise Awards 2017 8 February 2017
Barts Innovations in Healthcare Awards - Winners 19 January 2017
Congratulations to the winners of the Barts Innovations in Healthcare Awards November 2016!
Giant ‘nerve cell’ to be built in London’s East End 25 November 2016
Planning permission has been granted for the construction of a new science education space in Whitechapel, East London at Centre of the Cell, Queen Mary University of London (QMUL).
QMUL Barts and The London Medical School ranked second in the UK for medicine in Guardian University League Table 2017 25 May 2016
Queen Mary University of London has been ranked the 34th best university in the UK by The Guardian University Guide 2017.
Blizard Building Marks 10 Year Anniversary 9 December 2015
The iconic RIBA award winning building was opened by Princess Anne in October 2005, and over the past ten years has seen major advances in the research areas of cell biology, genomics, immunology, neuroscience, trauma, primary care and public health.