Research projects

We've discovered that platelets help remove aged red blood cells by forming complexes that target them for destruction in the spleen, a process crucial for preventing thrombosis and maintaining red blood cell homeostasis.

The role of oxidative stress in the progression of retinal degenerations

This project aims to shed light on the role of APA and its regulation by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in the retina, with a particular focus on responses to oxidative stress as observed in AMD.

The McMorran group discovered that platelets play a protective role in malaria by releasing Platelet factor 4 (PF4), which kills the parasite, and are currently studying the molecular mechanisms behind this function.

The use of miRNA as potential therapeutic targets in diseases causing retinal degenerations

To determine the role of histone variants, and other important epigenetic regulators, in regulating gene transcription and splicing.

To elucidate the role of the epigenome, including the histone variant H2A.Z, in regulating the 3-dimensional architecture of the genome by inhibiting the expression of epigenetic regulators cellular differentiation.

To study the role of histone variants and other epigenetic regulators in controlling pre-mRNA splicing on brain function and spermatogenesis using mouse knockout models. In addition, how the regulation of splicing impacts the progression of cancer using human breast cell lines.

This project combines NGS technology with isolation of polyribosomal complexes from living cells, to generate transcriptome-wide snapshots of the distribution of translation complexes along mRNAs

One core regulator of growth and division of great interest to our research is the MYC oncogene, which is a potent activator of cell growth networks and upregulated in most human cancers. This research aims to use a combination of models to unravel the mechanisms for regulation of MYC expression by FBP/FIR.

We wish to identify malignant-specific rapid responses to drug stress and find new compounds that would block such responses and reduce the adaptation rate.

This includes studies of genes of vaccinia virus that might be an impediment to use of this virus as a vaccine vector, genes of herpes simplex virus that block antigen presentation and genes involved in effective host responses.

We have a particular interest in viral and host gene expression during the latent phase of infection.

We utilise a unique mouse model to explore the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental factors in promoting autoimmune disease development, particularly in SLE research.