Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Liz Wallin, a DPhil student in the Transplantation Research Immunology Group (TRIG), is leading an exciting new three-year study on transplant failure. The study centres around 60 kidney transplant patients from Central and South West England and could be the first step towards extending the lifespan of kidney transplants.

By analysing blood and tissue samples in the lab and comparing them with clinical data such as new kidney function and possible episodes of infection and rejection, Liz hopes her work will enable her and others to understand better the processes that may cause transplant rejection. Eventually, her work could also lead to new ways to predict who may be at risk of transplant failure.

'One of the best ways of treating end-stage kidney disease is to perform a kidney transplant,' explains Liz, who is carrying out her research under the supervision of Professor Kathryn Wood. 'However, kidney transplants do not last forever, and one of the biggest problems we face is rejection. This is where the body's immune system recognises the transplant as being different to itself, and attacks it as if it were a virus or bacterium. This can occur early after the transplant and is usually easily treatable, but we are recognising that when it occurs later on it can shorten the lifespan of the transplant.'

Liz is supported by Kidney Research UK (KRUK). Her research project and its implications is featured in the summer 2015 issue of the KRUK magazine on page 5. You can also read the full article on the KRUK website.

To find out more about the Transplantation Research Immunology Group visit the TRIG webpages.

Similar stories

Prostate cancer AI diagnosis tool begins evaluation in Oxford

New artificial intelligence software that can help to spot prostate cancer is being trialled by researchers at Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) NHS Foundation Trust.

NDS SITU host first ever Surgical Trials Showcase

The first ever showcase of the Surgical Intervention Trials Unit, Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS SITU) was hosted on Monday 23 January 2023 at the Richard Doll Building on Old Road Campus, Oxford, and also online.

Mr Gurdeep S. Mannu awarded Cancer Research UK Clinician Scientist Fellowship

Many congratulations to Mr Gurdeep S. Mannu who has been awarded a five-year Cancer Research UK Clinician Scientist Fellowship.

Blog posts

Marathon challenge for Prostate Cancer UK

Runners of all abilities started 2023 by challenging themselves to run 26.2 miles across January to fundraise for Prostate Cancer UK as part of the charity’s Run the Month: Marathon Edition.

Staff Census: We need you!

All Medical Sciences staff are invited to log into HR self-service and ensure their contact, diversity background and disability details are up to date. Between 6% and 27% of staff in the Division are missing their diversity data which makes it difficult to complete statutory reporting, understand or track our population changes and to plan actions around staff diversity and equality – make sure your data is complete today!

Oxford MedSci goes silver: 10 Years of Athena SWAN

The Medical Sciences Division is celebrating 10 years since its first Athena Swan bronze application, and the first year in which all 16 of its departments have achieved a silver award. The silver award recognises commitment to gender equality, understanding culture and context, and more. Read about our department’s hard work and innovation.