His fellowship project, 'Evaluation of patient-derived regulatory B cells in personalised ex vivo systems: A bridge to translation to improve outcomes in transplantation', will explore novel strategies to improve long-term kidney transplant outcomes. He is supervised by Miss Sushma Shankar and Professor Fadi Issa within the Translational Research Immunology Group (TRIG).
Every year, thousands of patients in the UK receive kidney transplants, significantly improving both survival and quality of life. However, recipients must take long-term immunosuppressive medications to prevent organ rejection. These drugs are non-specific, leaving patients vulnerable to serious side effects, including infections and cancers.
Patrick's research focuses on a rare subset of immune cells, known as regulatory B cells (Bregs), which have shown promise in preventing rejection in pre-clinical models of transplantation. His project aims to determine whether Breg activity differs between transplant recipients who experience rejection and those who do not. He will also investigate whether Bregs can be enhanced outside the body to improve their protective function, potentially paving the way for safer, more targeted therapies that reduce the burden of immunosuppression.
The One Year Surgical Research Fellowship is designed to support trainee members of the Royal College of Surgeons of England in undertaking their first major research project. The application process is highly competitive, with candidates rigorously assessed through peer review to ensure that their projects are original, beneficial, and supported by strong supervision and research facilities.
Discover more about Patrick’s research on his staff profile.