Liverpool Proteolysis Lab
Understanding catabolic pathways in musculoskeletal disease
Our research focuses on how proteinases interact with each other and their inhibitors in the breakdown of extracellular matrix, with a particular focus on cartilage breakdown in osteoarthritis.
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Research Projects
Research in the lab covers many aspects of proteolysis and osteoarthritis. Active projects include:
Serine proteinase inhibitors in cartilage biology and osteoarthritis
This work focuses on endogenous serine proteinase inhibitors (serpins). We are working to understand how they are regulated in cartilage and osteoarthritis, and understanding what role they play in disease development.
Identifying MMP activators in osteoarthritis
Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation is an essential (and often overlooked) requirement for cartilage breakdown to occur. Identifying MMP activators in osteoarthritis is a novel approach to block the breakdown of cartilage.
Profiling proteolytic activity in the OA joint using activity-based probes: implications a for personalised approach to disease
This research uses commercial and novel chemical probes to 'fish'Â for proteolytic mediators, permitting capture, identification and visualisation of active serine proteinases. We hope this may allow for a personalised approach to OA diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding how serine proteinase inhibitors (serpins) contribute cartilage development.
This work explores how serine proteinase inhibitors function to drive stem cell differentiation into cartilage. We have demonstrated that one serpin is essential for chondrogenesis, and are exploring how this functions.
Contact Me
William Henry Duncan Building
Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences
University of LiverpoolÂ
L7 8TX
+44 (0)151 795 51205
Funding
We are very grateful to have received support from the following funders:
