R & D Programmes
Translational Molecular cell biology research
Translational science describes those actions undertaken by scientists to move basic research from the laboratory out into the wider world. It has its origins in clinical medicine where it describes the process by which new knowledge is turned into novel drugs and therapies. It can also describe those activities leading to the commercialisation of science derived knowledge and techniques to serve practical, commercial and public needs.
A major area of interest for this programme will be on translational research relating to cancer and other diseases drawing on established and growing expertise at NICB-DCU, NUIM, and ITT Dublin and linking this to clinical studies at AMNCH. Key areas of expertise include cell culture/cell technology, gene expression analysis, proteomics, and cellular pharmacology.
Key project areas include:-
- Proteomics technologies to identify biomarkers for early detection, warning of recurrence, and monitoring of response to cancer therapy.
- Investigations on mRNA, miRNA and protein expression profiles in cancer, followed by in vitro functional validation using SiRNA and cDNA transfection.
- In vitro screening of novel drug combinations and newly synthesised chemicals with the objective of improving cancer chemotherapy.
- Programme in Translational Platelet Science studies in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis and ischaemic cerebrovascular disease.
