Prof Charlie Archer - PhD
The work of the Connective Tissue Biology Research Group encompasses two spheres of synovial joint biology. First, we are interested in the development of joints and in particular, mechanisms of formation of articular cartilage and in the process of joint cavitation – a requisite for the formation of a functional joint. Second, we are interested in the application of the knowledge gained from the above studies towards biological repair of joint particularly articular cartilage. For example, we have recently isolated a progenitor cell from the surface zone of developing articular cartilage and have found that this cell can be expanded extensively in monolayer culture without loss of chondrogenic potential, a limitation of differentiated articular cartilage. Thus, we are developing this cell with view to use in biological repair procedures of articular cartilage especially of younger patients suffering from joint trauma.
Current Sources of Funding
- Arthritis Research Campaign
- BBSRC
- Department of Health
- Department of Trade and Industry
- Welllcome Trust
- Smith and Nephew
Collaborations
Dr. Geoff Richards , Director of AO Research Institute, Davos, Switzerland
Dr. Anwen Williams, Dept. of Rheumatology, Cardiff University
Dr. Christine Hartmann, Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna
Dr. Jessica Hayes, AO Institute, Davos, Switzerland
Affiliated Staff
Dr. Helen McCarthy (funded by the AO Foundation)
Miss Kirsty Richardson (Stem Cell Suite manager)
Dr. Rebecca Williams (funded by the Arthritis Research Campaign)
Postgraduate Research Students
Dr Adam Esa (funded by an MRC Capacity Building studentship)
Mr Oliver Gardner (funded by the AO Foundation)
Mr Alexander Neumann ((funded by the AO Foundation)