Cookies on this website
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Continue' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Non-coding DNA could hold the key to an effective treatment for inflammatory diseases

Research

The non-coding regions of our DNA may play a crucial role in how our genes are expressed in inflammatory diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Yet, very little is known about these genetic associations.

Photo of Dr Amity Roberts and Dr Matteo Vecellio
Photo of Dr Amity Roberts and Dr Matteo Vecellio

NDORMS researchers Dr Amity Roberts and Dr Matteo Vecellio are working to change our knowledge of the genetic landscape in AS with an eye on its potential for generating new ideas about treating this condition.

AS is found to be associated with more than 60 genes; getting to grips with the mechanisms behind these genetic associations is no easy task and the pair has already received a European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) Abstract Award 2016 in Basic Science in recognition of their work, presented at this year's EULAR Congress in London.

Read more (Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences website)

Similar stories

Researchers develop machine learning algorithm to diagnose deep vein thrombosis

A team of researchers are developing the use of an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm with the aim of diagnosing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) more quickly and as effectively as traditional radiologist-interpreted diagnostic scans, potentially cutting down long patient waiting lists and avoiding patients unnecessarily receiving drugs to treat DVT when they don’t have it.

COVID-19 recovery project nominated for HSJ award

The project, involving Oxford University Hospitals, Defence Medical Services (DMS), and the Radcliffe Department of Medicine is in the running for a prestigious honour at the Health Service Journal Awards 2021.

Oxford to assess revolutionary multi-cancer blood test in trial, for future implementation in the NHS

A partnership between the University of Oxford and GRAIL, LLC will evaluate the use of a new, non-invasive, multi-cancer early detection test known as Galleri in suspected cancer patients.

Endometriosis: gene identified which could be potential treatment target – new study

E-cigarettes: misconceptions about their dangers may be preventing people from quitting smoking

Blood bank storage can reduce ability of transfusions to treat anaemia

New research from Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics (DPAG), in collaboration with NHS Blood and Transplant, has demonstrated that the process of storing blood in blood banks can negatively impact the function of red blood cells and consequently may reduce the effectiveness of blood transfusions, a treatment commonly used to combat anaemia.