This thesis examines cytokine release storm, where the immune system becomes dangerously overactive. Using rat models, mathematical modelling, science and coding, she maps how corticosteroids move through organs and control inflammation. The goal is to optimise treatment for CRS during cancer therapy, COVID or future pandemics.

This research investigates salivary gland damage caused by radiation therapy, disease and ageing. Focusing on cellular regulation, she identifies XBP1 as a key “manager” maintaining gland structure, cell survival and saliva production. Understanding this mechanism could guide future therapies for patients living with painful, incurable salivary gland dysfunction.

This research investigates whether weight loss from the GLP-1 drug semaglutide includes loss of muscle mass. Using an obesity mouse model and direct muscle measurements, the study found significant muscle loss in females but not males. The findings highlight important sex differences and the need to evaluate body composition, not just weight loss.

This research uses a high-throughput screening platform called EpiScan to identify HIV peptides that bind strongly to MHC molecules and appear on infected cell surfaces. By discovering these immune-visible targets, the work aims to improve detection and elimination of hidden HIV reservoirs, supporting the development of future HIV therapies.

This research investigates how glutamine-rich regions within the LAG-3 protein influence Notch signaling, a critical pathway for cell communication and development. Using CRISPR gene editing, the study found that removing glutamine repeats alters stem cell behavior and cell-cycle progression, providing insights relevant to cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and future therapies.

This research develops soft, tissue-like implantable sensors capable of monitoring molecular signals inside the body in real time. By combining high-performance electronics with flexible, biocompatible materials, these devices could detect inflammation, stress, or organ damage before symptoms arise, enabling earlier diagnosis and more personalized healthcare.

This research investigates the neurological causes of sleep dysfunction in people with myotonic dystrophy, a common multisystem muscular dystrophy. Using mouse models and brain activity monitoring, the study examines how diseased brains lose the ability to compensate for stress, providing new insights into sleep quality, cognition, and disease progression.

This research develops a method to deliver EGCG, a green tea compound known to break apart Alzheimer's-related protein tangles, into the brain. By chemically attaching EGCG to a carrier that can cross the brain's protective barrier, the project aims to create a potential therapeutic strategy for slowing memory loss and disease progression.

This research investigates how cells select which protein fragments, or peptides, to display to the immune system. Contrary to previous assumptions, peptide presentation appears highly curated rather than random. Understanding these selection rules could improve cancer immunotherapy, enhance antiviral treatments, and provide new insights into autoimmune diseases.

This research develops antibacterial nanostructured surfaces inspired by natural materials such as cicada wings. The engineered surfaces physically rupture bacteria using nanoscale needle-like structures, avoiding traditional antibiotics and reducing the likelihood of antibiotic resistance. The technology could improve infection control in medical devices, implants, and hospital environments.