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Professor Nick Morrell is a leading researcher in the field of pulmonary hypertension at the University of Cambridge. His work focuses on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), particularly the role of mutations in the bone morphogenetic protein type II receptor (BMPR-II). These mutations disrupt signaling pathways, leading to dysfunctional gene transcription in vascular cell biology. Professor Morrell's research has expanded to encompass the roles of BMPR-II in angiogenesis, inflammation, iron metabolism, and innate immunity. His innovative approaches, which include gene therapy and enhancing BMPR-II transcription, have opened new avenues for treating BMPR-II deficiency. Furthermore, his collaborations involve structural biology studies to define molecular interactions in BMP signaling, aiming to develop designer peptides and small molecules to enhance BMPR-II signaling specifically within the vasculature. His research also utilizes induced pluripotent stem cells from patients to explore BMP pathway functions in heart and blood vessel development. Overall, his translational research at Papworth Hospital is pivotal in identifying new therapeutic targets for severe PAH, as well as in assessing biomarkers for predicting patient outcomes and responses to treatment.
Cambridge University • Cambridge, UK
Director of research for the National Pulmonary Hypertension Service at Papworth Hospital, focusing on clinical and genetic research in pulmonary hypertension.
Standard postgraduate requirements for Department of Politics and International Studies (POLIS) and related humanities departments.