AI-Powered Research to Shed Light on Kidney Transplant Rejection Mechanisms
Dr. Daniyal Jafree and a team at the Wellcome Sanger Institute have received a £250,000 grant to investigate the role of lymphatic vessels in kidney transplants using artificial intelligence.
Dr. Daniyal Jafree and a research team at the Wellcome Sanger Institute have been awarded a £250,000 Professor Michael Nicholson research project grant to understand the function of lymphatic vessels in kidney transplant rejection and explore ways to protect these vessels.
Project Purpose and Grant Support
Dr. Daniyal Jafree and the Wellcome Sanger Institute team have received a £250,000 Professor Michael Nicholson research project grant aimed at ensuring kidney transplants last longer. The team will use artificial intelligence technology to examine the impact of lymphatic vessels on organ rejection.
Kidney Transplant Rejection and Challenges
Every year, many kidney transplants fail because the immune system attacks the new organ. While current immunosuppressive drugs increase the risk of infection, researchers aim to better understand what happens inside the kidney following transplantation.
The Importance of the Lymphatic System
Lymphatic vessels, which consist of tiny tubes inside the kidney, play a role in clearing fluids, waste, and immune cells. It is known that these vessels enlarge and expand during the rejection process, establishing a close relationship with immune cells.
Previous Studies and 3D Imaging
With previous funding from Kidney Research UK, Daniyal and his team used novel 3D imaging techniques to examine lymphatic vessels in transplanted kidneys. These studies showed that the vessels become irregular during rejection and are targeted by the immune system.
Artificial Intelligence and Computer Simulations
The team will collaborate with Dr. Mo Lotfollahi to decode the role of lymphatic vessels in transplant rejection. Using artificial intelligence tools and computer simulations, they will seek to determine why the immune system attacks these vessels.
Clinical Studies and Laboratory Tests
While kidney biopsies will be examined in a clinical study led by Prof. Menna Clatworthy, AI predictions will be tested in the laboratories of Prof. David Long and Prof. Reza Motallebzadeh.