Immunological regulation and strategic manipulation of macrophages and neutrophils to prevent the formation of adhesions after abdominal surgery
Abdominal adhesions pose a significant clinical challenge due to their frequent occurrence and the limited understanding of their pathogenesis. Ongoing research is starting to clarify the role of macrophages and neutrophils in the formation of adhesions. This project proposes a novel strategy to modulate the post-operative microenvironment by targeting the activities of neutrophils and macrophages, aiming to regulate both the inflammatory and immune responses. The ultimate goal is to prevent the formation of abdominal adhesions following surgery.
Methodology:
1) Immunofluorescence staining of abdominal adhesions from a recently conducted murine study will be employed to identify and characterize the phenotypic expression of macrophages at the protein level, and to detect neutrophils and their neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs).
2) Flow Cytometry-Assisted Cell Sorting (FACS) will be utilized to isolate macrophages from murine blood. These macrophages will undergo in vitro cytokine stimulation to mimic the inflammatory condition in vivo.
3) Co-localization analysis within the tissue sections will elucidate the spatial and interactive dynamics of macrophage proteins.
Conditions: Murine tissues and blood samples are available for utilization. The lab work for the doctoral thesis can be completed within 6-8 months of full-time effort. Applications for a scholarship (or Hiwi Job) will be supported.
We offer: The opportunity to develop expertise in conducting immunological research, enhancing analytical and research skills. Opportunities for presenting results at internal and external conferences. Insights into the field of pediatric surgery, particularly immunological therapy for clinical use.