Previous research, as described in the previous project, has identified existing anticancer properties of complex sugars from shellfish termed ‘glycosaminoglycans’ (GAGs). It is not known if they are effective just on leukaemia cells or if they also target any rapidly dividing cells (e.g. WBC during an infection).
Kidscan is funding a study that will culture lymphocytes from healthy bloods to test what effects complex polysaccharides have on them; (toxic cell death, growth promotion, or activation). Various families of lymphocytes will be assessed: T- helper (CD4), T- effector (CD8) and regulatory (Treg) cells.
Using a range of cellular assays this study will further understanding of how feasible it may be to develop GAGs for treating childhood cancer.
Grant Award – Studentship 2015-2016
Funding Award – £2000
Funding Awarded to – Dr Lucy Smyth
Research Location – University of Salford
Lead Researcher – Dr Lucy Smyth
0161 295 3864 