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School of Biosciences
The Research Excellence Framework also assesses the impact that the research has outside academia. The case studies below are a selection of the research submitted by the School of Biosciences.
Preventing genetic disorders
Professor Darren Griffin, Professor Alan Handyside
Darren Griffin and Alan Handyside’s research has been used to develop new techniques that are being used in IVF clinics around the world. Applied to families where there is a high risk of genetic disorders, the process – known as ‘karyomapping’ – has helped to ensure births of unaffected children
The impact of this research has also been extended beyond clinical applications. Adaptations are being translated for use in livestock breeding regimes, to improve meat yields and reduce environmental concerns.
Biopharmaceutical proteins
Professor Robert Freedman, Professor Mick Tuite
The use of pharmaceutical drugs produced in living cells has been steadily rising, with many of the most common biopharmaceuticals being proteins. Research to improve the production and secretion of these protein drugs by cells has become a crucial part of drug discovery and development.
The patented technology developed by Kent’s Robert Freedman and Mick Tuite (left), in collaboration with the US pharmaceutical company Merck, can produce increases in the levels and authenticity of a range of highvalue, secretory proteins. Several major pharmaceutical companies including Novozymes and Pfizer are using the technology to help develop and produce drugs for treating a wide range of human diseases, such as type 2 diabetes.