The objectives of this research initiative are to understand the role of the vascular endothelium in the pathogenesis of inflammation. Endothelial cells actively respond to leukocyte adhesion to initiate signalling cascades leading to an active facilitation of leukocyte passage from blood to tissue. An ability to control these signalling processes will allow an effective control of leukocyte infiltration which may modulate inflammatory disease such as multiple sclerosis. This research is carried out in close collaboration with Professor John Greenwood's research group here at the Institute. To view time-lapse video microscopy showing leukocytes migrating through an endothelial monolayer click here .
Migrated leukocytes are visible as darker cells moving under the endothelial monolayer.
These proteins are essential in mediating the response of endothelial cells to leukocyte adhesion. ICAM-1 coupled cytoskeletal rearrangements and lymphocyte migration across brain endothelium involves intracellular calcium signalling. These adhesion molecules subsequently cause passing leukocytes to stick to the surface of the endothelial cells. By understanding the signalling processes which govern the expression of these endothelial-leukocyte adhesion molecules it may also be possible to use these strategies to prevent their expression. Inhibition of adhesion molecule expression may allow control the migration of leukocytes into tissues.